News Release
NCD #99-262
February 17, 1999
Contact: Mark S. Quigley
202-272-2004
202-272-2074 TTY
mquigley@ncd.gov
National Council on Disability Releases Progress
Report on Disability Status
WASHINGTON--The National Council on Disability (NCD)
today released its 1998 progress report on national public policy,
stating that the country continues to move forward in expanding
opportunities and inclusion for Americans with disabilities, but
the pace is slow.
NCD's report, National
Disability Policy: A Progress Report, reviews federal policy
activities, noting progress where it has occurred and making further
recommendations to the President and Congress where necessary.
According to NCD chairperson Marca Bristo, "The country
continues to move forward, however the rate of progress is slower
and less steady than many in the disability community had hoped
when the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990.
Federal policy remains rife with inconsistent messages and unrealistic
requirements for people with disabilities who rely on federal programs
like Social Security disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation,
Medicaid, Medicare, special education, and Temporary Assistance
for Needy Families."
"In addition, the backlash against civil rights for
children and adults with disabilities continues to motivate attempts
to weaken laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act and ADA," Bristo added.
For more information, contact NCD public affairs specialist
Mark S. Quigley at 202-272-2008 (301-390-0930 home), or visit NCD's
Web page (http://www.ncd.gov) to obtain a copy of the report.
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