Congress Recognizes 20th Anniversary Of ADA

By Alexa Gitler - Talk Radio News Service

Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa.), House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md), Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) and Rep. Jim Langevin (D-R.I.) joined with several other members Monday to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Americans With Disabilities Act. 

“The ADA has broken down barriers, created opportunities, and transformed lives,” said Harkin. “Today we recognize that people with disabilities like all people have unique abilities, and talents, and aptitudes, and that our nation is better and fairer and richer when we make full use of those gifts.”

The law allows for equal opportunity, full participation, independent living and economic self-sufficiency for people with disabilities. 

Langevin, who is disabled after becoming paralyzed almost 30 years ago, will preside over a resolution in the House of Representatives today as Speaker Pro-Tempore. This is the first time in history this role has been filled by a disabled Member.

“I hope people see my act today [presiding over the House] and realize that all things are possible, that all of us have difficulty and challenges in our lives, but if we have single-minded determination, and with the right tools and support to level the playing field there is nothing we can’t accomplish or pursue,” he said. 

This evening, President Barack Obama will host an event at the White House to commemorate the anniversary of the law.

New bill to restore rights of the disabled

Congressman Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), House Majority Leader, spoke at a press conference about the American Disabilities Restoration Act. He said that the American court system has slowly chipped away at the rights of the disabled by narrowing the definition of a disability. This bill should broaden the definition of a disability and restore rights to disabled Americans. He said this bill also directs companies to lower the burden of disability. He said that this was an important aspect to ensuring the rights of the disabled.

He said this bill will restore the ADA act to its rightful place in America and Congressman Hoyer said that it is a victory for civil rights. He said that the bill should be through the house by the end of the day. He said that he hopes the Senate will vote soon and President Bush can sign the bill as soon as possible.

He said that since President Bush Sr. signed the bill 18 years ago it has been eroding, offering less and less protection for the disabled. He said that this restoration act should fix that problem.