Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara today announced the passage of his landmark legislation, A7363, in the New York State Assembly – a groundbreaking bill that establishes a Communication Bill of Rights for individuals with disabilities across New York State.

The bill affirms that every person, regardless of ability, has the fundamental right to communicate in a way that works for them – including nonverbal or nonspeaking individuals who rely on assistive technology or alternative communication methods.

“Communication is not a privilege – it is a human right,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara, Chair of the Subcommittee on Autism Spectrum Disorders and a longtime advocate for people with disabilities. “This bill ensures that all New Yorkers, including those who are nonspeaking or nonverbal, are recognized, respected, and supported in expressing themselves fully.”

As the father of a son with autism who is nonspeaking, Santabarbara brought both professional experience and personal understanding to the legislation. The bill outlines a framework of rights that includes access to communication supports, the freedom to choose preferred communication methods, and the right to be heard in all areas of life – including education, healthcare, and community settings.

“This is about dignity, independence, and inclusion,” Santabarbara added. “Too many people have gone unseen and unheard for far too long. With this legislation, New York leads the way in recognizing that everyone deserves a voice.”

The bill is backed by advocates, educators, disability organizations, and individuals across the state and the country — including Elizabeth Bonker, Executive Director of Communication 4 ALL, who visited the Capitol earlier this week to champion the bill.

Elizabeth Bonker, Executive Director of Communication 4 ALL, typed "The Communication Bill of Rights is landmark legislation for People with Disabilities (PWD). We are grateful for Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara's leadership in getting this bill passed, Now, all voices can be heard! This law recognizes and supports nonspeakers like me to communicate in our chosen manner. New York is the first state to pass a law that recognizes the basic human right to communicate, and it will be a model for the nation." Communication 4 ALL, a nonprofit with the mission to ensure all nonspeakers have access to communication, worked with many self-advocates, allies, and advocacy organizations to advocate for the Communication Bill of Rights.

“The Autism Society of America is proud to fully endorse Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara’s Communications Bill of Rights in the New York State Assembly,” said Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “We believe every individual – regardless of how they communicate – has the right to be heard, respected, and valued. This legislation affirms those fundamental rights and represents a vital step forward for all New Yorkers. We commend Assemblyman Santabarbara for his leadership and hope this effort inspires similar action nationwide.”

A7363 is part of Assemblyman Santabarbara’s broader legislative work focused on disability rights, accessibility, and equity in communication, education, and public services