FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 26, 2006

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi: ‘Our Commitment to the ADA Must Never Waver’

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in celebration of the 16th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act:

“The Americans with Disabilities Act affirms that every American has the right to live independently and to fully participate in all aspects of our society.  This landmark legislation represents our nation’s commitment to protect the civil rights of more than 54 million Americans. It has broken down barriers and it has fostered inclusion.  Most significantly, it transformed society’s attitudes toward people with disabilities, and it advanced our nation’s fundamental calling to respect each individual.

“The ADA was founded upon the values of equality, opportunity, and independence.  However, there is much work to be done.  Only 32 percent of people of working age who have a disability are employed. And today, people with disabilities are still three times more likely to live in poverty.

“That is why our commitment to the ADA must never waver.  Sadly, the Bush Administration’s support for the rights of individuals with disabilities has been sorely lacking. President Bush has chosen judges for the federal bench who are hostile to the ADA.  He has actually proposed funding cuts to Medicaid, Section 8 housing, vocational rehabilitation, and assistive technology – all of which are essential to fostering independence.  Furthermore, it is alarming there are legislative proposals to allow people opportunities to disregard the ADA or to treat it as an inconvenience.  These proposals are intended to weaken, not strengthen, the ADA and thus our commitment to people with disabilities.  Democrats are committed to opposing these proposals vigorously.

“Democrats are committed to expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities and all Americans.”

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi