Madam Speaker, it is my honor to rise in support of S. 3406, the Senate-approved ADA Amendments Act of 2008. Passage of this bill will clear the way for the President’s signature and finally renew our promise to the American people that discrimination, in any form, will never be tolerated.

I would like to thank my good friend and colleague, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, for all of his hard work on behalf of the disability community.  His dedication played an integral role in passage of the original Americans with Disabilities Act, a law that has transformed the lives of millions.  Now, thanks to his steadfast leadership, we can ensure the continued inclusion and protection of millions more.

I would also like to express my gratitude to all of the advocates within the disability and business communities, who united in a bipartisan, collaborative manner and worked with members of Congress to ensure a fair and strong compromise.

The ADA was truly a groundbreaking piece of civil rights legislation.  As someone who has lived with the challenges of a disability both before and after the ADA's enactment in 1990, I have experienced, first hand, the profound changes that this law has effected within our society.

It has broken down barriers, created opportunities and empowered millions of Americans to flourish in their personal and professional lives.  It has also served as a vital tool against discrimination in the workplace and in public life.

Unfortunately, a number of court decisions over the years have diluted the definition of what constitutes a disability, effectively limiting the ADA's coverage and excluding from its protections people with diabetes, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, and various developmental disabilities.

The bill before us today reaffirms the protections of the ADA and upholds the ideals of equality and opportunity on which this country was founded. 

In July, we celebrated the 18th anniversary of the ADA.  It was a day to reflect on our past accomplishments, our current challenges and future opportunities.  I can think of no better way to honor the spirit of this landmark bill than by passing the ADA Amendments Act and reaffirming Congress’s intent to ensure the ADA’s broad protections.

People with disabilities represent a tremendously valuable resource.  By fostering an environment of inclusion and empowerment, we can provide the means for every individual to fulfill his or her potential. 

The ADA Amendments Act will help us realize this important goal.  I strongly urge my colleagues to support passage of this bill and send it to the President for his signature.

Thank you, Madam Speaker.  I yield back.