Bush Signs ADA Amendments Act into Law!

September 26, 2008

Congratulations on this momentous and hard-fought victory!  NCIL is very proud of its members, who helped restore the rights of all Americans with disabilities through their tireless efforts.  Thank you!

Thursday morning, President George W. Bush signed into law the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA), legislation that will protect people with disabilities and provide a clear definition of disability under the ADA for employers. The ADAAA is supported by over 220 national organizations and many key business associations including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, the Society for Human Resource Management, and the HR Policy Association. Read the White House press release.

We understand that President George H.W. Bush participated in the signing ceremony that was held in the Oval Office with Members of Congress and some key Congressional staff. Bush #41 spoke about the wonderful signing ceremony in 1990 with everyone outside the White House to celebrate. The ADAAA was the only bill signing that former President Bush has attended since his son became Commander in Chief eight years ago.

For more information about the ADAAA, visit http://www.adathebill.com and a new site on the history of the ADA, including this week’s history making achievements, by Georgetown University.

Perino Announces Bush Will Sign ADA Amendments Act

September 17, 2008

The White House Office of the Press Secretary, Statement by Press Secretary Dana Perino

“The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 is instrumental in allowing individuals with disabilities to fully participate in our economy and society, and the Administration supports efforts to enhance its protections.  The Administration believes that the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, which has just passed Congress, is a step in that direction, and is encouraged by the improvements made to the bill during the legislative process. The President looks forward to signing the ADAAA into law.”

ADA Amendments Act Passes the Senate by Unanimous Consent!

 September 11, 2008

Congratulations, Advocates!  Today is a momentous day for our community.  Because of your efforts, the Senate has just passed by unanimous consent the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, S. 3406!

The bill was brought to the floor by Senators Hatch (R-UT) and Harkin (D-IA).  Both gave stirring speeches on the impact of the original ADA and the restoration of our civil rights with the ADA Amendments Act. People with disabilities will now be able to enter the workforce with confidence that their civil rights are not in question, said Harkin.

The bill was then sent back to the House, and approved by unanimous consent. The bill will reach President G.W. Bush with a veto-proof majority! He will sign the bill into law with little fanfare, and only members of the Congress will be allowed to witness the event personally. Plans are in the works to publicly celebrate the victory. We'll keep you updated! 

Today is a day for celebration. Thank you and congratulations!