Pelosi Statement on the 28th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

"Twenty-eight years ago, we passed the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act, taking an historic step toward fulfilling the full promise of our nation as a land of freedom and opportunity for all.  The ADA provided the 55 million Americans living with a disability the equal opportunity to achieve their full potential free from the fear of discrimination or exclusion.

"As we mark this anniversary, the health and financial security of Americans with disabilities, as well as millions of seniors and hard-working families, is under constant attack by the Republicans relentless health care sabotage.  Republicans are doubling down on their efforts to make health care more expensive by attacking protections for people with pre-existing conditions and cynically driving up insurance premiums.  The Republicans' assault on health care dishonors the dignity and worth of all Americans, particularly those living with disabilities.

"Democrats know that the full social and economic participation of Americans with disabilities is fundamental to America's continued prosperity in the 21st Century.  We have a responsibility to protect the rights guaranteed in the ADA while we work to expand protections and give individuals with disabilities the resources and support they need to live independently and thrive.  Democrats will continue to fight for A Better Deal for the people, taking real action to lower Americans' health care costs, protect and strengthen the pillars of Medicare and Medicaid, and preserve critical protections for Americans with pre-existing conditions.