The Commission for the Protection of Persons With Disabilities - CPPD

09/14/2026

In June, our agency was renamed the Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (CPPD) as part of the passage of Katie's Law which updated Chapter 19C to reflect “person-first language.”

We know that words matter. Katie’s Law reflects our state’s deep commitment to protecting, respecting and uplifting individuals with disabilities. We're grateful to Representative Sean Garballey for filing this legislation, all the legislators who voted in support of the legislation, The Arc CEO Maura Sullivan for championing it and Governor Healey for signing it into law.

Read more:

The independent state agency aimed at protecting adults with disabilities from caregiver abuse and neglect has a new name.

08/17/2026

We're thrilled to share that the Disabled Persons Protection Commission is now the Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities following the passage of S.2563, An Act Amending Certain Laws Relative to Individuals with Disabilities.

As part of the change in law, Chapter 19C has been updated to reflect “person-first language.” This means that all references to “disabled person” are being replaced with “person with a disability.”

CPPD’s website is now cppdmass.gov. This change does not affect our staff email addresses or phone numbers.

07/27/2026

The Commission for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities (CPPD) website is down for maintenance. If you need to report abuse, please call CPPD’s 24 Hotline at 1-800-426-9009. Deaf or Hard of Hearing callers, please use VRS or MassRelay at 711.

04/09/2026

Changes in the behavioral patterns of an individual with disabilities can be a warning sign of abuse. Cheryl Chan, a mother and advocate for adults with disabilities, reminds us that an individual’s loved ones and caregivers can help identify new or concerning behaviors, serving as a crucial resource for investigators.

Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

03/24/2026

Narrative practice is an important tool that can be used to gain more understanding of an individual's abilities and conversation style. Here, Hampden County Special Victims Unit Forensic Investigator Stephanie Briggs explains how beginning an interview with open-ended, non-leading questions can help to establish a baseline and build rapport. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

02/24/2026

When interviewing survivors with a disability, investigators must be prepared to pivot, redirect, or repeat portions of the interview. This approach requires adaptability to ensure a supportive and effective interview process. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

02/13/2026

DPPC is committed to empowering survivors so they can tell their stories and know that they will be heard and respected. By effectively listening, investigators can make a significant impact on a survivor. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

01/23/2026

The Funnel Model is an effective method for interviewing persons with a disability. It encourages investigators to begin an interview with open-ended questions followed by clarifying questions to gain an understanding of an interviewee’s experiences, perspectives, and communication abilities. Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

01/13/2026

Thorough preparation is key to ensuring a successful interview. Elizabeth Scheibel, Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Building Partnerships for the Protection of Persons with Disabilities and Older Adults Initiative (BPI), discusses how Investigators need to have a comprehensive understanding of the case, the victim and their disability as they approach every interview to create a safe and comfortable environment.

Learn more by watching our video training series: https://dppcmass.gov/training-series/

12/23/2025

Earlier this year, DPPC Executive Director Nancy Alterio spoke to WBUR about our Abuse is R.E.A.L. campaign and why it’s important to raise awareness about recognizing the signs of abuse.

If you witness concerning behavior, trust your instincts: Know the signs, listen without judgment, ask thoughtful questions and empower the individual to speak up and seek help. Report suspected abuse of adults with disabilities to the Disabled Persons Protection Commission (DPPC) 24-hour Hotline 1-800-426-9009. Deaf or Hard of Hearing callers, please use Video Relay Service (VRS) or MassRelay at 711.