Bob Dole: “on April 14, 1969, I gave my first speech on the Senate floor. I spoke about people with disabilities--the challenges…”

“on April 14, 1969, I gave my first speech on the Senate floor. I spoke about people with disabilities--the challenges they face in their daily lives and how appropriate services can make a big difference by giving them a shot at opportunities others take for granted. Thus, as I leave the Senate today, it is with a sense of symmetry and continuing mission that I am pleased today to rise in support of the Individual with Disabilities Education Act. I might say, we hoped to have that cleared. There is some problem. IDEA, as it is often called, gives States important financial help to educate students with disabilities and, in turn, provides students with disabilities with the guarantee of a free and appropriate public education. Mr. President, there are some issues that transcend politics, foster a bipartisan spirit, and result in legislation that makes a real and lasting difference. In my view, disability has always been one of those issues. Perhaps no legislation has been more important in improving opportunity for young people with disabilities than IDEA.”