Advocates push for Senate to sign international disability rights treaty

The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations is considering whether to recommend that the Senate ratify a treaty, called the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), that would provide rights protections to people with disabilities around the world. The CRPD reflects much of the requirements set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), such as equal treatment and non-discrimination in access to justice, health, education, employment, and rehabilitation.

Senate approval was expected this week for ratification of the treaty, but last minute opposition has placed it on hold. More than 165 organizations support the treaty and are encouraging people to contact their Senators to ratify it.

Read an article from Disability Scoop: Disability Rights Treaty Held Up In Senate