[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 106 (Friday, July 29, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1709]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        15TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. CURT WELDON

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 28, 2005

  Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, fifteen years ago, the 
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President 
George H.W. Bush. As the first declaration of its kind, it was a 
significant moment in the battle for equality among the disabled. It is 
essential that on the anniversary of the ADA, we take some time to 
seriously reflect on the impact it has had on the lives of the 14 
percent of Americans who live with at least one disability.
  As a result of this act, those with disabilities are now able to 
travel more freely, enjoy a greater range of recreational and 
employment opportunities, and ultimately enjoy a higher overall 
standard of living. Otherwise productive Americans are no longer 
ostracized from their social surroundings or forced to live their lives 
in nursing homes or similarly confining facilities.
  While more work remains to be done to ensure full integration of the 
disabled population into American life, I would like to acknowledge the 
continued success of the ADA in reinforcing the American ideals of 
compassion and equality for all.

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