Governor's Office of Disability Affairs

The Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs (GODA) strives to serve as an informational resource for people with disabilities, their families and the agencies that serve them. 

GODA was established and designed by the Governor’s Office to adequately educate, address and resolve issues relative to the disability community. It is our goal to promote, encourage and support citizens with disabilities so they may have an equal opportunity to actively participate in all aspects of life.

There are numerous state and community organizations across Louisiana that work in partnership with GODA. It is their collaboration and partnership that enable us to facilitate positive progress for Louisiana citizens with disabilities.

 


State Capitol Construction

Throughout the construction period, the staff remain committed to visitor accessibility. The East Breezeway is now serving as the public Capitol Entrance during construction.

The East Breezeway entrance is located on the east side of the building and has an automatic door opener via a button that will remain operational for those who need it.

“From Advocacy to Policy to Impact”
The Split Second Foundation and the Governor's Advisory Council on Disability Affairs will co-host the annual Disability Awareness Day at the Louisiana State Capitol.
This event will enable disability based organizations to meet and interact with legislators, the Governor’s Advisory Council on Disability Affairs, and state leaders during the 2026 Regular Session to emphasize the importance of their work in their communities.
This year’s Disability Awareness Day will feature a high-level fireside chat titled “From Lived Experience to Lasting Policy,” featuring Louisiana Department of Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein and moderated by Mark Raymond, Jr., Founder and CEO of the Split Second Foundation.
The event will also feature exhibitors from various organizations who are pivotal in providing services and support within the disability community.
Join us and lend your voice to advocate for policies that empower this vibrant community.
Split Second Foundation
Agenda
Location: State Capitol Rotunda + State Capitol Museum
8:30–9:00 AM – Capitol Museum Doors Open / Registration / Light Networking
9:15 AM – Opening Remarks + Welcome Speakers
9:45–10:45 AM – Fireside Chat with Secretary Bruce Greenstein & Mark Raymond, Jr.
10:45 AM – 12:00 PM – Lunch + Networking
12:00–4:00 PM – Advocacy Activities in Rotunda

Vendors

  • Louisiana Rehabilitation Services
  • McNeese Prime
  • Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council
  • Families Helping Families of Louisiana
  • The Arc of Louisiana/ People First of Louisiana
  • Statewide Independent Living Council
  • Louisiana Speech-Language-Hearing Association (LSHA)
  • Lighthouse Louisiana
  • Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Train Unique – Adaptive Fitness
  • Special School District – Louisiana School for the Deaf and Visually Impaired
  • LSU Health – New Orleans Human Development Center
  • Brain Injury Association of Louisiana/ United Spinal Association of Louisiana

News from the Office of Disability Affairs

Each month the Office of Disability Affairs puts together a newsletter with details about past and upcoming events, as well as other important information for people with disabilities and their loved ones. Get all the latest from our most recent issue.

 

Governor's Advisory Council on Disability Affairs

The Governor’s Advisory Council on Disability Affairs (GACDA) was established to monitor state compliance with the Americans with Disability Act and to advise the governor on the needs of individuals with disabilities in Louisiana. GACDA is also charged with assisting the Governor’s Office of Disability Affairs with the resolution of state disabilities issues and provide education, communication, and networking services concerning disability issues and needs for all Louisiana citizens. GACDA operates under Executive Order JML 24-42 and is composed of 9 members appointed by Governor Landry.

The Governor's Advisory Council on Disability Affairs announced the dates for the 2026 scheduled quarterly meetings.

 

All meetings:

  • Begin at 9:00 AM
  • Are open to the public
  • Have a virtual option
  • Have interpreters upon request

2026 GACDA Meeting Dates:

  • Wednesday February 25
  • Wednesday May 20
  • Wednesday August 19
  • Wednesday November 18

Starting in 2026 ASL interpreters for the GACDA meeting will be made available by request only.

Those who need accommodations can request the service via email or by phone.

All accommodation requests should include your name and the meeting date you are requesting the interpreting service.

Any question can be directed to: Disability.Affairs@la.gov or call (225) 219-7553.

In Memory of April Dunn

The office is eager to address any issues or concerns that you may have. We welcome your comments and ideas for making positive changes. We are strongly committed to assisting Louisiana citizens with disabilities and are truly honored to focus on the abilities of those we serve.

Staff:

Liam Doyle
Executive Director

Tillie Carrier
Senior Coordinator

Email: disability.affairs@la.gov 

Contact Us

Phone: 225-219-7553

Or Call the Governor's Toll-Free Constituent Help Line: 844-860-1413 

Powered by Cicero Government