Thursday, September 11, 2008

Breaking News: Senate Passes ADA Amendments Act

September 11, 2008 - Breaking News from DPC and The Arc of the United States

Thanks to all of your grassroots support, the Senate just passed The ADA Amendments Act (S. 3406) by unanimous consent. The bill included over 77 bipartisan co-sponsors.

Because the Senate bill differs slightly from the House version (HR 3195), the House will need to take up the ADA Amendments Act again. Given limited time, it is likely the House will vote on the Senate version as early as next week. Once both houses pass identical bills, we anticipate the President will sign the bill shortly thereafter.

The ADA Amendments Act will correct narrow court interpretations that have restricted ADA coverage in the workplace, and weakened coverage for individuals with developmental disabilities, diabetes, epilepsy, serious heart conditions, and cancer. The act will also clarify responsibilities for employers. It enjoys wide support on both sides of the aisle, as well as among employers, civil rights and disability advocates, who have formed an uncommon alliance to support this legislation.

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