Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Kansas for yielding. I appreciate him organizing an opportunity to come to the House floor and talk about this important issue. As the father of two children, I have been committed to policies for a safe and enduring future for all kids and understand that we have to ensure the protection of kids no matter what their walk in life, particularly those with developmental disabilities. Mr. Speaker, over 200,000 in the United States live with Down syndrome, and one in 792 babies is born with this genetic disorder. While there have been great advances in medical research and public policy to enhance the lives of those affected by Down syndrome, there is still much work to be done. Individuals with disabilities face many challenges, and I understand the need to ensure access to vital services and medical equipment to support independent and active lives. This is critical to help effectively live with Down syndrome. Getting our kids the proper development path at a young age helps them ensure they will be healthier adults with a bright future. For over 20 years, I have watched with such pleasure young people begin to build that proper developmental path at Access Academy in Little Rock or Easter Seals Academy at Riverdale. As a former member of the board of directors of Arkansas Children's Hospital, I saw firsthand how important it was that parents are given the tools they need to keep their children healthy.…”