[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 36 (Thursday, February 25, 2021)]
[House]
[Page H631]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN

  (Mrs. HARTZLER asked and was given permission to address the House 
for 1 minute.)
  Mrs. HARTZLER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the $1.9 
trillion spending boondoggle that is going to be on the House floor 
this week.
  While there are many irresponsible and careless facets of this bill 
worth noting, the elimination of alternative wage programs for workers 
with disabilities is one of the most devastating aspects of this bill, 
impacting over 5,800 Missourians and thousands more across our Nation.
  In fact, this provision will likely cause the end of these programs. 
By doing that, it will strip many individuals of their voice, workplace 
family, independence, and sense of community.
  That is why I am offering an amendment to protect the choices and 
voices of the Missourians next to me. They deserve a government that 
supports their efforts, not one that runs them out of business.
  With only 35 percent of individuals with disabilities employed in the 
competitive market, it is our duty to look for ways to expand 
employment opportunities for them, not diminish them. I urge my 
colleagues to support this amendment and, if it does not pass, please 
oppose this bill.

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