Public Policy Advocacy

Public Policy affects our children

Boy playing with legosCDS has developed an effective statewide network of Developmental Preschool staff, local board members and parents to advocate for the needs of infants and preschool children with developmental disabilities and delays. Over the past several years, this sagebrush roots effort has resulted in the successful advocacy for a host of issues, ranging from additional state funding to attract and retain an array of professional preschool educators and therapists to the creation of a statewide pediatric mental health system. 

In addition to lobbying for the passage of bills during the legislative session, CDS works throughout the year with the Wyoming Developmental Disabilities Division on the implementation of state and federal legislation and programs. Wyoming statutes designate the Division as the agency responsible for distributing public funds to the Regional Developmental Preschool Programs through contracts and for the general oversight of the developmental preschool system.

CDS also works with other agencies and private organizations in developing, advocating for and implementing public policy initiatives to bolster Wyoming’s ability to provide quality early childhood developmental programs for young children and their families. To become a member of this dynamic network of parents and professionals, contact the CDS office at 307.742.1110 or at cdswy@cdswy.org.