The Arc of the United States has taken a significant and unprecedented step to safeguard the rights of students with disabilities. Just before Thanksgiving, The Arc announced that it has joined a lawsuit against the federal government as an organizational plaintiff. The case—Somerville Public Schools et al. v. Trump et al., now consolidated with New York v. McMahon—was filed in response to actions aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. The lawsuit seeks to block these efforts and preserve the essential programs and protections the Department provides to students, families, and educators.

The Arc’s decision to join this litigation reflects its 75-year history of using every available legal tool to uphold inclusion, opportunity, and equality in education. The case argues that dismantling the Department would severely weaken enforcement of educational rights and limit critical supports for students with disabilities. It emphasizes that the Department cannot fulfill its responsibilities without adequate staffing and resources. The Arc submitted its declaration to the court on April 1, 2025, and the case is being heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts.

This marks the first time The Arc has taken legal action against the federal government, underscoring the gravity of what is at stake. The lawsuit is led by Democracy Forward and includes plaintiffs such as Somerville Public School Committee, Easthampton School District, the American Federation of Teachers-Massachusetts, AFSCME Council 93, SEIU, and others. While chapters were not informed prior to filing due to strict confidentiality requirements in litigation, this action demonstrates The Arc’s unwavering commitment to protecting the foundation of IDEA and ensuring its promise endures for future generations.

Historically, The Arc has played a pivotal role in advancing educational rights, including the landmark PARC v. Pennsylvania case, which helped establish the right to education for students with disabilities and paved the way for IDEA. Today, chapters across the country are already reporting serious consequences from reductions in staff at the Department of Education, making this legal challenge more critical than ever.