Douglas Ruas proposes new Inclusive Policies Secretariat for Rio de Janeiro

Douglas Ruas, a PL candidate for the Governor of Rio de Janeiro, has announced a proposal to create a State Secretariat for Inclusive Policies. The initiative aims to elevate disability-related policies from their current status as a sub-secretariat under the Ministry of Women and Inclusive Policies to a dedicated department. The proposed secretariat would oversee and enforce inclusion measures across various government sectors, including health, education, and sports.

As part of this platform, Ruas pledged to ensure the presence of support teachers throughout the state education network to improve conditions for students with disabilities. His running mate, Fernanda Louback, emphasized that the campaign includes families living with the realities of autism and disability.

In a separate development regarding disability inclusion in Rio de Janeiro, the Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro (Alerj) maintains a partnership with the Niterói Association of Physically Disabled Persons (Andef). This collaboration employs individuals with physical disabilities, autism, or reduced mobility in various parliamentary roles, such as building maintenance, fleet mechanics, and administrative support. This partnership integrates the lived experiences of affected individuals into the legislative environment.