Dingell, Fitzpatrick Recognize Anniversary of Americans With Disabilities Act

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), co-chairs of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, introduced a bipartisan resolution commemorating the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act on the 34th anniversary of its signing into law. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced a companion resolution in the Senate.

"For 34 years, the Americans with Disabilities Act has been successful in breaking down barriers and providing millions of individuals with a better quality of life," said Congresswoman Dingell. "While we've made progress, much work remains to be done. Disability rights are civil rights, and as co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, I will continue to work to protect all people living with disabilities in every area of their lives, and ensure equal access to all the same spaces, resources, and opportunities."

"Since the historic passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act thirty-four years ago, this landmark legislation has continued to eradicate discriminatory barriers that have held back millions of Americans living with disabilities from accessing everyday opportunities in life," said Congressman Fitzpatrick. "No one should ever live in fear of discrimination, which is why, as co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, I am committed to continuing to develop and advance legislation that safeguards the rights of our disability community and ensures they are always protected."

Background on the Americans with Disabilities Act:

• The ADA is a landmark civil rights law that bans discrimination against Americans who face disability challenges in all areas of the public including schools, employment, transportation, and the general public.
• Protections are granted to Americans with disabilities, similar to protections given to individuals to prevent discrimination based upon race, sex, color, national origin, age, or religion.
• The ADA guarantees equal opportunity for disabled individuals in public accommodations, transportation, employment, government, and telecommunications.

Read the text of the resolution here.