[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 68 (Thursday, April 20, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E515]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF RICHARD BERNSTEIN FOR RECEIVING THE JOHN DINGELL 
                   OUTSTANDING PUBLIC OFFICIAL AWARD

                                  _____
                                 

                          HON. DEBBIE DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 20, 2017

  Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Richard 
Bernstein for receiving the John Dingell Outstanding Public Official 
Award at the 2017 Governor's Fitness Awards Banquet. Mr. Bernstein has 
had an outstanding legal career and served as a justice on the Michigan 
Supreme Court with distinction.
  After earning a law degree from Northwestern University in 1999, Mr. 
Bernstein joined the Law Offices of Sam Bernstein, where his work 
focused on defending the rights of the disabled. In addition to his 
work in ensuring that public facilities in Michigan are accessible by 
disabled individuals in accordance with federal law, Mr. Bernstein has 
also served as an advocate for disabled rights internationally through 
visits and lectures in various countries, including Australia, Ecuador 
and Israel. Mr. Bernstein has also compiled a distinguished career in 
public service. In addition to currently serving an 8-year term on the 
Michigan Supreme Court, Bernstein has previously been elected to the 
Wayne State University Board of Governors in 2002 and serving as its 
chair from 2009 to 2010.
  Mr. Bernstein has fought tirelessly on behalf of Michigan residents 
and those with disabilities. During his time in private practice, Mr. 
Bernstein helped represent the Paralyzed Veterans of America in a case 
that resulted in improved accessibility to the University of Michigan's 
athletic facilities. In addition, his advocacy and effort have resulted 
in improved accessibility for disabled fliers at Detroit Metro Airport. 
For these accomplishments, Mr. Bernstein has received numerous awards, 
including the University of Michigan's James T. Neubacher Award for his 
work to ensure equal rights for individuals with disabilities. Mr. 
Bernstein's record of outstanding public service and advocacy on behalf 
of Michigan residents is more than deserving of this prestigious award.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Richard 
Bernstein and his record of achievement. Mr. Bernstein's professional 
record and public service have benefited Michigan and are worthy of 
commendation.

                          ____________________