LANSING — State Representative Frank Liberati (D-Allen Park) and state Senator Rick Jones (R-Grand Ledge) announced on Wednesday the formation of the Disabilities Awareness Caucus, a bipartisan, bicameral effort that will focus its attention on policy issues facing those with a disability.

“I serve as a board member of the Special Olympics Michigan. Many concerns of special needs children and adults have been brought to my attention over the years, and I hope to work on some of these concerns with this caucus,” said Jones, a co-chairman of the caucus.

“We have brought together a great group of legislators who will bring disability issues to the forefront of policy discussions in Lansing,” said Liberati, who will also serve as co-chairman of the legislative caucus. “It is time we put words into action.”

Lt. Gov. Brian Calley said, “People with disabilities deserve a chance to live self-determined, independent lives, but are often judged based on what they can’t do, instead of what they can. I’m pleased that Senator Jones and Representative Liberati are making opportunities for people with disabilities a priority by forming this caucus.”