Welcome to Stakeholder Relations
DARS values our partnerships with our stakeholders, who help us continually improve the quality of services to our consumers. This page will be updated on a regular basis with information of interest to stakeholders. DARS Stakeholder Relations periodically sends out messages about upcoming meetings, events, and information of general interest to our stakeholders around the state. If you would like to add your contact information to the DARS Stakeholder Relations distribution list, please send an email to Karissa Garcia.
On this page you will find specific information about current DARS initiatives and how you may contribute input to help shape the services we provide.
Stakeholder Notices
DARS Commissioner Wanser to Retire
Debra Wanser is retiring after two years as commissioner of the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services and more than 30 years of public service. | More about Commissioner Wanser's retirement
Emergency Preparedness Resources for People with Disabilities
With the recent devastating tornados that have touched down in North Texas and Oklahoma and hurricane season just weeks away, it's time for Texans, especially those with disabilities, to begin planning for emergencies. | More about Emergency preparedness
Gov. Perry Appoints Three to Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Council
Gov. Rick Perry has appointed three members to the Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Council for terms to expire Feb. 1, 2019. The council assists the commissioner of the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services in developing rules and policies for the agency.| More about DARS Council appointments
DARS Inquiries TTY Line No Longer Active
As of May 1, 2013 the TTY line to the DARS Inquiries Unit has been disconnected and is no longer in service. | More about shutdown of Inquiries TTY line.
Public Hearings and Opportunity for Public Comment: Revisions to 40 TAC Chapter 108, Division for Early Childhood Intervention Services
The proposed revisions are based on feedback from the US Department of Education, feedback from regional contractor meetings, programmatic clarification of existing requirements, and new programmatic requirements. | More about ECI Public Hearings
2012 DARS Annual Report Available
The 2012 DARS Annual Report, recently posted on the agency's Web site, follows the theme "Focus on Innovation, Partnerships, Success." | More about 2012 DARS Annual Report
Stakeholder Article Archives...
DARS Stakeholder Relations Team
Cassie Fisher
Cassie Fisher has more than seven years experience in state government. Before joining DARS she was a public policy specialist for the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities working on various issues impacting persons with developmental disabilities focusing on employment, early childhood intervention, transportation, and education policy. Ms. Fisher also worked for the Department of Family and Protective Services as a Child Protective Services Investigator and for two state officials in the Texas Legislature. Ms. Fisher earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from the University of Texas at Austin.
For questions, compliments or complaints, please contact DARS Inquiries at 1-800-628-5115.
