Louise Slaughter: “H.Res. 450 is a modified closed rule. The rule allows one amendment, if offered by Ways and Means Ranking Member the…”

“H.Res. 450 is a modified closed rule. The rule allows one amendment, if offered by Ways and Means Ranking Member the gentleman from New York (Mr. Rangel) and if the amendment is previously printed in the Congressional Record. In general, open rules best protect all Members' rights to fully represent their constituents. However, I recognize the potential problems of allowing an unfettered amendment process on bills, such as this one, that amend the Social Security and Medicare Acts. The Rules Committee has followed the useful tradition of allowing only limited floor amendment during consideration of bills that revise these basic safety net programs. Mr. Speaker, the current disability system has not kept pace with the development of new technologies and therapies that allow individuals with disabilities to live and work in the mainstream of our society. Too often, our disability system punishes those who wish to work toward living independently by reducing benefits and ending the Medicare benefits on which they depend for their health care. I am proud to have supported legislation that would aid individuals with disabilities in education, housing, transportation, and many other areas. I was a cosponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act and have sponsored legislation to prevent genetic discrimination. I am now equally pleased to support H.R. 3433, the Ticket to Work and Self- Sufficiency Act.”