The Republican platform calls for integration and inclusion of people with disabilities and applauds Governor Bush s New Freedom Initiative, a comprehensive agenda to help individuals with disabilities live independently, hold jobs and take part in their communities. Republicans pledge continued vigilance in protecting access to health insurance for individuals with disabilities, especially Medicare and Medicaid.
Republicans also emphasize their support for the promise of assistive technology.
The Democratic platform calls for tax credits and grants to pay for rehabilitation and work-related expenses for people with disabilities. Democrats also state that they support all efforts to implement the Supreme Court's Olmstead decision and to make personal assistance services and supports available to people with disabilities in their homes and communities. Another brief in support of the ADA was submitted by former President Bush who signed the ADA into law in 1990. Oral arguments in the Supreme Court are scheduled for October 11. Don't forget the Rolling Freedom Express and March for Justice, the bus tour that will start in Alabama, pass through 7 states and end up in Washington, DC, September 30th.