[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 10]
[Senate]
[Page 14224]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




 PRAISE ON THE 12TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

 Mr. JOHNSON. Mr. President, I rise today in praise of the 
Americans with Disabilities Act on the occasion of its 12th 
anniversary. The advances in law, health care, education, 
transportation, and technology promoted in this historic legislation 
over the past 12 years have given Americans with disabilities a new 
lease on life.
  Today, 53 million Americans live with a disability, of which 1 in 8 
is severely disabled. Yet due to the landmark Americans with 
Disabilities Act, the stereotypes against these persons are crumbling 
and they are able to lead increasingly integrated fulfilled lives. The 
Americans with Disabilities Act has provided disabled individuals 
protection from discrimination in both the public and private sector, 
and guarantees equal access to employment, public services, and public 
accommodations. The Act has also spurred research and improved care for 
seniors, children and mentally disabled persons. In going so, this 
monumental Act has ensured an improved quality of life for people 
living with disabilities and has promised disabled children hope for a 
successful future. The contributions of the Americans with Disabilities 
Act over the past 12 years are an inspiration for what can be done to 
improve the lives of Americans living with disabilities, and a 
proponent of more progress in the future.
  Once again, it gives me great pleasure to recognize and honor today's 
celebration on behalf of the millions of disabled Americans who may 
continue to benefit throughout this country.

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