NEWS
SEBCM x National Black Caucus of State Legislatures (NBCSL)
By Kyle Stepp

We are thrilled to share exciting news: the National Black Caucus of State Legislatures (NBCSL) has officially adopted So Every BODY Can Move legislation as model legislation! This monumental achievement was made possible thanks to Maryland State Delegate Ashanti Martinez, along with State Senator Pamela Beidle and Senator Sarah Elfreth, who championed the successful passage of the So Every BODY Can Move bill (HB865/SB 614) in Maryland. Delegate Martinez, as a member of NBCSL, took the initiative to nominate this groundbreaking legislation for the NBCSL’s model legislation platform.
The NBCSL’s model legislation process is a rigorous and prestigious effort to highlight policies that exemplify expertise, consistency, and effectiveness. Each year, NBCSL invites its legislative members to submit bills they’ve successfully introduced and passed. After careful review, select pieces are presented at the Annual Legislative Conference and elevated as model legislation to inspire adoption in other states. Delegate Martinez’s leadership has propelled So Every BODY Can Move into this spotlight, paving the way for more transformative change nationwide.
This recognition means that legislators a part of the NBCSL across the country now have access to a proven framework to introduce and pass So Every BODY Can Move legislation. NBCSL’s endorsement not only amplifies the momentum of our movement but also ensures broader visibility and impact in the push for disability rights and access to improved O&P care for physical activity and more!
Special Thanks
We extend our deepest gratitude to SEBCM State Leads Sheryl Sachs, CPO, and John Edward Heath for their tireless hard work and partnership with Maryland’s legislative sponsors. Your dedication and collaboration played a critical role in the successful passage of this legislation, creating a ripple effect of progress across the country.
What This Means
- Increased Visibility: NBCSL’s recognition elevates our legislation to a national stage, making it a priority for lawmakers nationwide.
- Legislative Momentum: State leads can now leverage this recognition as a powerful tool to advocate for the passage of this legislation in their states through collaboration with NBCSL members in their state.
- Validation of Our Work: This endorsement underscores the strength and importance of our collective mission.
Call to Action
Now is the time to act! State leads: connect with NBCSL members in your state and share this exciting development. Encourage them to engage with the So Every BODY Can Move model legislation and champion the introduction of SEBCM legislation in your state legislature.
We encourage state leads to provide NBCSL members with the full comprehensive model legislation by contacting your State Coach! State Coaches are ready to equip you with all the resources you need to strengthen your outreach and advocacy.
Visit NBCSL’s Model Legislation Platform: So Every BODY Can Move – Maryland HB865
Contact your SEBCM State Coach or SEBCM Strategic Partnerships Leads, Kyle Stepp (kylepstepp94@gmail.com), to learn more about how you can engage members of NBCSL in your state legislature!