News

As the 2026 legislative session moves along, a lot is happening at the State House that could affect how people live, age, and get the supports they need. Take a look at the bills now in play—from healthcare and housing to transportation, voting, and long‑term care—and see what lawmakers are considering this year and how it could show up in everyday life across Rhode Island.

This Disability Employment Awareness Month, OSCIL is spotlighting work incentives like the SSA’s 1619(b), Rhode Island’s Ticket to Work, and the Sherlock Plan—tools that help people with disabilities earn income while keeping vital benefits. Employment means independence, and these programs can make it possible.

From July 21–24, representatives from the Ocean State Center for Independent Living (OSCIL) joined disability rights advocates from across the country at the 2025 National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) Conference in Washington, D.C. This year’s theme centered around “leveling up” to build resilience and advocacy in the face of significant policy shifts—especially proposed Medicaid cuts and other changes that could deeply affect the disability community.

On April 24, OSCIL held its annual meeting, bringing together program managers, consumers, and community members to celebrate the organization's achievements and discuss future challenges.

We're recapping the key points from our Olmstead Listening Sessions on supporting independent lives for Rhode Islanders with disabilities.

As we welcome 2025, it’s the perfect time to focus on empowering ourselves and others. Small, intentional steps can make this year more fulfilling and independent: Work Smarter, Not Harder Take time to assess your living space and daily routine. Are there adjustments that could make life easier? Simple updates like installing grab bars, improving lighting, or rearranging furniture can enhance safety and independence. Pair these changes with the use of technology, such as voic

As the 2024 elections approach, OSCIL invited the RI Governor's Commission on Disabilities to guest-author this article explaining their...

Heather, an independent living coordinator here at OSCIL, recently retired her first guide dog so that she could get a new one. She has graciously shared her experience, giving a glimpse into the unique relationship between her and her four-legged companions. Heather and Asher, her first guide dog Retiring a first guide dog is never easy. After nearly eight years of partnership with my first guide dog, Asher, it became clear that he was ready for retirement. His subtle cues—

This is the final part of a 5-part series on evolution of ADA and the disability experience from the perspective of a woman in the first...

This is part of a 5-part series on evolution of ADA and the disability experience from the perspective of a woman in the first generation...

This is part of a 5-part series on evolution of ADA and the disability experience from the perspective of a woman in the first generation...

This is part of a 5-part series on evolution of ADA and the disability experience from the perspective of a woman in the first generation of recognized disability rights. Click here to read the previous segment. Back in that classroom in Rhode Island, my mother was making the case for an integrated placement. While I did need some IEP services, she argued, the curriculum and social opportunities there were far below my developmental level. The person giving the tour couldn’t

It was the summer of 1990. I was three years old and transitioning from the Early Intervention program where I received services because...

On this day, June 22, in 1999, the Supreme Court ruled that unjustified segregation of persons with disabilities constitutes discrimination in violation of Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The landmark Olmstead v. L.C. decision became a cornerstone in the fight for disability rights and has profoundly influenced disability policy and practice around inclusive, community living. The Olmstead Decision also brought about the development of state-specific O

The Ocean State Center for Independent Living (OSCIL) is committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of some of the most...

RIPTA and the RI Division of Statewide Planning want you to share your experience travelling around Rhode Island and help shape our...

As the state fiscal year 2025 budget discussions reach their final stages, the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island (SACRI) is pushing for crucial legislation to expand the Medicare Savings Program (MSP). The proposed bills, H7333 by Representative Karen Alzate and S2399 by Senator Sandra Cano, aim to increase MSP income limits, benefitting thousands of low-income Medicare recipients. Current Challenges for Seniors Many older adults and individuals on Social Security Disab

By Richard Muto – Social Services Support Specialist My brain was bleeding.  I sat at a friend’s kitchen table, right cheek against the...