In Arkansas families are facing unimaginable challenges due to a bureaucratic backlog. The CES (Community and Employment Supports) waiver waitlist has left parents like Tamerah Cooper struggling daily to provide basic care for their children with developmental disabilities. For Tamerah, this means dragging her seven-year-old son, who has outgrown his wheelchair, up stairs and through doorways because essential items like a ramp or a lift remain inaccessible.

Despite turning in her application almost a year ago, Tamerah hasn't even made it onto the waitlist. She shares her story not just for herself but for every family enduring this frustrating and unnecessary delay. This situation highlights a systemic issue that needs immediate attention from our lawmakers.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders acknowledged the existence of the CES waiver wait list, and while recognition is a step forward, it's time for real action. A potential solution lies in calling a special legislative session. State Representative Denise Ennett has mentioned that ending this waitlist could cost around $50 million—a small fraction compared to the $600 million currently in Arkansas's state reserve. If other states like Oklahoma can address their waitlists, why can’t we?

Inaction is simply not an option. The waiver provides crucial support such as medical equipment that allows children to live their lives with dignity and ease. It is essential for lawmakers to convene a special session, rather than postponing solutions until next year’s legislative session. Our children and families cannot afford to wait any longer.

We urge you to join us in calling for a special session to allocate the necessary funds immediately. By signing this petition, you are advocating for hundreds of Arkansas families who are relying on us to push for change. Let us show that Little Rock stands united in prioritizing the needs of our most vulnerable children.