Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities

In existence since September of 1950, the Texas Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities (GCPD) works toward a state in which people with disabilities have the opportunity to enjoy full and equal access to lives of independence, productivity and self-determination. The Governor appoints twelve members to serve on the Committee, seven of whom must be people with disabilities. Representatives from eight state agencies serve as ex-officio or advisory members.

The committee makes recommendations to the Governor and Legislature on disability issues; promotes compliance with disability-related laws; promotes a network of local committees doing similar work; recognizes employers for hiring and retaining employees with disabilities; and recognizes media professionals and students for positively depicting Texans with disabilities.

The committee members and staff also provide technical assistance, information and referral services to citizens of Texas on issues affecting Texans with disabilities. The committee’s enabling law is outlined in the Human Resources Code, Chapter 115.

Mission Statement

The committee's mission is to further opportunities for persons with disabilities to enjoy full and equal access to lives of independence, productivity, and self-determination.

Key Services

The Governor’s Committee recommends changes in disability policies and programs in the areas of accessibility, communication, criminal justice. education, emergency preparedness, employment, health, housing, transportation, and veterans. The committee also supports a network of local committees on people with disabilities, issues awards to promote greater awareness, and promotes compliance with disability related laws.