Political Quotes

“the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has the admirable goal of advancing the interests and rights of the disabled across the world. However, I have great concerns about acceding to this convention. I am also disappointed that the Senate will dedicate just 2 hours of debate to consider this convention, without the ability for any Senators to offer or consider worthy amendments. U.S. leadership in advancing and safeguarding the rights of the disabled is unmatched. The United States is the leader on disability issues. It's for this reason that the convention is modeled on the disability rights laws of the United States. However, I have serious doubts that simply joining the convention will lead to greater U.S. influence in promoting disability rights abroad. The ability of the United States to lead on this issue is not and should not be dependent upon joining this convention. We can lead on disability rights abroad because we lead on disability rights at home. Joining this convention will have no impact on the disability rights of Americans in this country. Americans with disabilities are already afforded the rights contained with the treaty. Many Federal and State laws protect the rights of the disabled, including the Americans with Disabilities Act. Even proponents of the convention acknowledge that it will not enhance the rights of individuals with disabilities in America. We have made great strides in disability policy in America.…”