[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 12]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 16929]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



  DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ASSISTANCE AND BILL OF RIGHTS ACT OF 2000

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 25, 2000

  Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, today we are commemorating the 10th anniversary 
of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This law has proven to 
make a tremendous impact on the lives of 54 million individuals in our 
country.
  In the past decade, Americans with disabilities have been provided 
protection in employment, public services, public accommodations, as 
well as services operated by private entities, and transportation, 
telecommunications providers.
  Since the passage of the ADA, millions of Americans have had the 
opportunity to contribute to society by being able to work in all 
fields of employment.
  This monumental law has also allowed disabled Americans to enjoy life 
by increasing their access to recreational activities as well as 
removing obstacles to business and leisure travel.
  Because of the ADA more and more individuals are able to travel with 
their families or guide dogs with better accommodations and less 
barriers. People with disabilities now have more access to shopping 
areas, dining facilities, theaters, travel services, and much more.
  The ADA has helped to ensure equal employment opportunity as well as 
allowed individuals to materialize their educational and professional 
goals.
  This law has opened up many doors to millions of Americans by 
allowing them to lead independent and self-sufficient lives. The ADA 
has been an important tool in the fight to eliminate all forms of 
discrimination. The ADA has provided reasonable accommodations in the 
workplace. The ADA has made major differences in the lives of many 
individuals.
  Let's all celebrate the anniversary of the passage of this important 
law and celebrate the lives of millions of Americans.

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