Pelosi Statement Opposing Bill to Undermine the Americans with Disabilities Act

Contact: Ashley Etienne/Henry Connelly, 202-226-7616

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi issued this statement opposing the discriminatory anti-ADA legislation, H.R. 620, which is scheduled for a vote on Thursday:

"For more than a quarter of a century, the Americans with Disabilities Act has advanced our nation's mission to build a fair, equal and just future for all. This milestone law has transformed the lives of the 55 million Americans who live with a disability, and shattered barriers to full participation in society. Congress should be building on that progress, not undermining it.

"This discriminatory bill harms the civil rights of people with disabilities, and sets a troubling precedent that would harm the rights of all who rely on civil rights laws. The bill would institute burdensome notice and filing requirements that would have the effect of no longer requiring compliance with the ADA and of denying discrimination victims access to federal courts.

"Congress should reject this bill and, instead, sustain the proud legacy of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Together, we must continue to stand up for the rights of Americans with disabilities and build a future of fairness and opportunity for all."

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