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FOIA Number: 2007-0143-F FOIA MARKER This is not a textual record. This is used as an administrative marker by the William J. Clinton Presidential Library Staff. Collection/Record Group: Clinton Presidential Records Subgroup/Office of Origin: Political Affairs Series/Staff Member: Peter Shakow; Joe Velasquez Subseries: OA/ID Number: 5120 FolderID: Folder Title: Disabled Community Stack: Row: Section: Shelf: Position: S 28 5 3 2 Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet Clinton Library DOCUMENT NO. SUBJECT/TITLE DATE RESTRICTION AND TYPE 001. memo Joe Velasquez to Waves; RE: Personally Identifiable Information 03/16/1994 b(6) [partial] (1 page) 002. memo Denise Rozell to Peter Shakow; RE: Personally Identifiable 03/03/1994 b(6) Information [partial] (1 page) 003. memo Denise Rozell to Peter Shakow; RE: Personally Identifiable 03/21/1994 b(6) Information [partial] (1 page) COLLECTION: Clinton Presidential Records Political Affairs Peter Shakow; Joe Velasquez OA/Box Number: 5120 FOLDER TITLE: Disabled Community 2007-0143-F db4520 RESTRICTION CODES Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)] Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)] P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA] b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA] P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA] b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRAJ an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA] P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA] financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President information [(b)(4) of the FOIA] and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA) b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA] personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRAJ b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA] C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of of gift. financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA] PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C. b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information 2201(3). concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA] RR. Document will be reviewed upon request. January 28, 1994 The Honorable Bill Clinton President The White House Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: Eight months ago, you announced your intent to nominate us to serve as members of the National Council on Disability. We were thrilled. We were challenged and honored to be asked to assist your Administration in shaping public policy as it relates to Americans with disabilities. With issues such as health care reform, welfare reform, and education reform on your agenda, our nominations sent a strong message to the disability community that our concerns would not be forgotten. Now, many months later, we are frustrated by our inability to meaningfully assist in these important deliberations. Moreover, while we wait, appointees from the Bush and Reagan Administrations continue to officially provide your Administration with policy input on disability issues. While we appreciate the magnitude of the task of filling the many vital positions within government, we hope this process will be moved forward. With the withdrawal of Bobby Simpson as your nominee for RSA Commissioner and with the resignation of Justin Dart as Chairman of the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, many in our community are concerned that our voice will not be heard and that the Clinton Administration is, in fact, losing ground. While we know this not to be the case, prompt attention to these vacancies and others of importance to the disability community will reaffirm the commitments you made during your campaign to enable us to better assist you in these historic reforms. Mr. President, we appreciate the leadership you have provided on a range of issues affecting people with disabilities. Your strong commitment to health reform that includes people with disabilities, your vigorous enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act and other civil rights laws, and your historic meeting with the disability The Honorable Bill Clinton, Page 2 community in July demonstrate your true understanding of our issues. We remain committed to assisting you in fulfilling the policy you outlined so well during your campaign: inclusion, not exclusion; independence, not dependence; empowerment, not paternalism. Sincerely, Marcusrest Michele Alioto,ss Marca Bristo Michele Alioto Chair-Designee, Member-Designee, National Council on Disability National Council on Disability and President, Access Living of Metropolitan Chicago Bonnie O'Day,ss Kate Pew Walters, Bonnie O'Day Kate Pew Wolters Member-Designee, Member-Designee, National Council on Disability National Council on Disability bcc: Joe Velasquez MAR-22-1994 16:12 FROM US OFF. CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO 94567929 P.01 UNITED STATES OFFICE OF CONSUMER AFFAIRS 1620 L ST. NW Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20036 TO: Peter Shakow Tel.# 456.6257 Fax # 456.7929 FROM: PAUL Steven miller Tel.# 634-96-0 Fax # (202) 634-4135 MESSAGE: As we discussed 2 page actoond MAR-22-1994 16:13 FROM US OFF. CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO 94567929 P.02 NCIL National Council on independent Living 21.11 Wilson Blvd... Suite 405 Allington VA 22201 VOIDE (703) 528-3406 TI/IDD (703) 628-3407 FAX (703) 825-3409 March 22, 1994 Officers Productiont Denise A Figuerou. TROY, New York Internal Yise Predition Helen Roth Logan. was Carol H. Rasco Edemal Yice President Powl Spooner Assistant to the President on Reminghum, Massachusetts Secretary Domestic Policy Gino MoDanald The White House Topeles, Kansas 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Treasurer Mohard Qunden Washington, DC 20500 SyMania Onlo Regional Representative: Challiperson Dear Ms. Rasco, Kathleen Kleinmann Washington, Pennaylvanta members-At-Larige On Thursday, April 28, 1994, the National Council on Marro Brite Chicago, limits Independent Living will host: a Fund Raising gala reception and moniny Granbeig Los Angeles Colliamies dinner in Washington, DC. We are coming together on this Chester Helms evening to celebrate the tremendous importance of health care Charlotte, North Carolina Morths Hodgernith reform and it's relationship to citizens with disabilities. We Topeirs, Kansas believe your participation is vital to anhance the significance of Dana Jackson Adington. Virginia this event. Therefore, please accept this as an invitation to be Robert Mohoels our Keynote Speaker at the dinner which will be held at the Phiodsiphic Pennsylvania William ciubodun Hyatt on Capitol Hill. Lowernes. Massachusetts Regional Representatives: Region: The National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) is an MON Womboon Boston, Masrachusetts organization run by and for people with a variety of disabilities. Region # The accomplishments of NCIL over the pest ten years is due to Todo Eggient Alcony, New York the tireless energy and commitment of its reembership, lingion III volunteers and allies across the nation. It has established itself Kathleen Kieinmann Washington, Pennsylvonia as the national voice for the independent living movement, the Register N Independent living centers and people with disabilities who are Jan Day Louisville, Kentucky leaders in the disability rights movement. NCIL played 8 direct Region V Lee Sohulz role in building a grassroots commitment to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Members have Region Condoce LOW dedicated many hours in Washington and at home in educating Norman Oklahoma the Congress and the public about the importance of the ADA. l'egion VII Michael Donnelly NCIL has taken 1 leadership position in the resuthorization Topeka Karnes of the Rehabilitation Act, and has been directly Involved in other Region VIII Mary Joster related disability laws. Boulden Delerado Region x Kenny UNI Recently, NCIL has opened an office In Washington, DC. 3an Prancisco, Callfornia As you are aware, the cost of running a national office and Regton X Duams French Ancharage, NOT JUST RESPONDING TO CHANGE BUT LEADING IT. MAR-22-1994 16:13 FROM US OFF. CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO 94567929 P.03 Resco, Page 2 providing Information and services to he membership throughout the nation la high. Therefore, we have embarked on 8 fund raising: campaign to supplement dur limited resources, SQ that we can better serve our membership and Increase our involvement in assuring a greater quality of life for all Americans with Disabilities. Your commitment to universal health care, which includes people with disabilities is applauded by all of us in the movement. This upcoming dinner and meeting is the big event for persons with disabilities, and as the Keynote Speaker, you will be communicating with the cross-disability leadership. Our membership will also have the opportunity to share with you their concerns about health care reform. The needs of citizens with disabilities in the area of health care Is crucial. By you coming together with us we can jointly address the many health care issues which relate to disabled Individuals. It is our hope that you can accept our Invitation. Your participation can make a meaningful change in the lives of all people with disabilities. I will contact your office shortly to discuss further details. Thank you for your attention to our request. We at NCIL look forward to this wonderful opportunity. Sincerely, Desise Denise A. Figueroa President THE WALL STREET JOURNAL. DATE: 3/23/9 PAGE: A-14 Disabilities Law, Health Hazard By JAMES BOVARD AIDS-infected waiter who had taken a There are roughly 7,000 HIV-positive The movie "Philadelphia," portray- leave after coming down with double pneu- physicians in the U.S. A 1992 Centers for ing a law firm's discrimination against monia. (The Hartford Courant noted that Disease Control study observed that, un- an AIDS-infected lawyer. won two Acad- the waiter "started losing weight and be- der one set of assumptions, "the estimated emy Awards Monday night. While the came sluggish and weak. He left food un- probability that [an HIV-infected) surgeon movie is generating sympathy for peo- der the warmers too long. and his hands will transmit HIV at least once during the ple with AIDS, little attention is being shook so much that he couldn't carry cock- rest of his/her career is 8.1%." paid to the people whose lives are be- tail trays.") Even if a doctor with HIV lies to his ing endangered by federal policies that The presumptions created in the ADA patients and claims not to be infectious, increasingly prevent companies from can turn every decision about the job and he is still entitled to full protection un- protecting employees or customers from work assignments of a contagious indi- der the ADA. Philip Benson, a Min- contagious fatal diseases. Few people vidual into a court battle. Civil-rights pol- neapolis physician, continued delivering realize how expansive the Americans icy concerning contagious diseases is in- babies and doing invasive genital and With Disabilities Act is, and how it can fluencing firefighting. In a path-breaking rectal examinations for nearly a year threaten their own health. case last December, federal judge Joyce after he came down with AIDS; the Min- The Supreme Court laid the ground- Hens Green ruled that the District of Co- nesota Board of Medical Examiners in work for a broad protection of the rights of lumbia fire department violated an infec- September 1990 permitted him to con- contagious people in a 1987 decision that a tious firefighter's civil rights because he tinue practicing even after he had open school board wrongfully fired a teacher was specifically prohibited from doing sores on his hands and arms as long as with tuberculosis. Under the ADA, passed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. But the he wore double gloves. Dr. Benson re- in 1990, "any physiological disorder or con- firefighter had hepatitis B, which infects portedly lied to his patients when they dition which substantially limits one of a 300,000 people and kills 7,000 people a asked questions about his sores and his person's 'major life activities' can be year. sharp weight loss, and also allegedly classified as a handicap that employers The biggest impact of the new discrim- failed to wear gloves during some ex- are prohibited from discriminating ination-contagion philosophy is on health aminations. against. Since contagious diseases are care. The federal Department of Health While many HIV-infected surgeons vol- physiological disorders-voila!-discrimi- and Human Services penalized a Westch- untarily cease practicing, others are not so nating against people with contagious dis- ester County, N.Y., hospital in 1992 be- inclined. In late 1992, an AIDS-infected or- ease can be a federal crime. cause it prevented an HIV-positive phar- thopedic surgeon. sued Mercy Catholic Employers are now required to hire macist from preparing intravenous solu- Medical Center of Philadelphia for revok- people with contagious diseases unless tions, even though the hospital did offer ing his hospital privileges. The hospital of- they can prove that the pharmacist another position where fered to allow the surgeon to continue the person poses a there was far less danger of transmitting practicing if his patients signed consent large risk to other REGULATORY the disease: forms stating that they had been informed workers or their cus- CHOKEHOLD Hospital, the journal of the American of the doctor's HIV status. The surgeon tomers. The Equal Hospital Association, noted that the sued. American Medical News noted. "Ad- Employment Oppor- Westchester hospital "justified its stance vocates for people with HIV insist that re- tunity Commission, in its implementing by noting its large number of very ill pa- quiring notification [of patients) is tanta- regulations for the ADA, announced: "De- tients and that pharmacists often stick mount to revoking [hospital] privileges." termining whether an individual poses a themselves accidentally and must break The suit is still pending. significant risk of substantial harm to oth- glass vials in order to prepare IV solutions. The failure of policies that indulge in- ers must be made on a case by case basis." In a worst-case scenario pharmacists fectious surgeons was made stark in a re- "Significant risk" was defined in congres- could stick themselves with a fine-gauge cent investigation of a UCLA surgeon who sional reports authorizing the law as a needle and be unaware of it. That needle spread hepatitis B to 18 patients undergo- high probability of substantial harm. would then be inserted in a bag with solu- ing heart surgery in 1991-92. Amazingly. Restaurants are now obliged to give the tions, contaminate the solution, and then the hospital had tested the surgeon, dis- benefit of the doubt to potentially conta- infect a patient." But federal officials covered he was infected, and yet still per- gious job applicants. James Coleman, an ruled that the hospital violated the rights mitted him to continue operating without attorney for the National Council of Chain of the infectious pharmacist. The hospital warning patients of the additional deadly Restaurants, observed in 1992, "What we was forced to pay him $330,000 for, among risks they faced. The hepatitis was appar- were told in no uncertain terms was 'We other things, the "emotional damage" it ently spread to patients through tiny holes [Congress] are going to use the restaurant had inflicted on him. in surgical gloves. The New York Times industry as a vehicle for forcing a change Federal regulations are resulting in a noted yesterday that "the hospital's deci- in public attitude with respect to AIDS. If cloak of secrecy being imposed on what sion to allow the surgeon to keep on oper- it costs you money, too bad.' may be life-or-death information to pa- ating even after he was found to be in- It is extremely unlikely that someone tients. The ADA gave health care work- fected is in compliance with federal could contract AIDS as a result of eating a ers the right to continue performing in- guidelines." meal prepared by an AIDS-infected per- vasive surgery without disclosing to pa- The UCLA case makes a mockery of son, but such individuals often are hit by tients that there is a risk that they could the CDC's universal precautions-which, other illnesses-such as tuberculosis-that contract AIDS from the health care if followed. supposedly protect patients are contagious.. A Farmington. Conn., provider. from infected doctors and dentists. Yet, restaurant was sued by the state Commis- studies in recent years have found that sion on Human Rights and Opportunities as many as 47% of gloves suffer from after the réstaurant refused to rehire an defects, punctures or leaks during surgery. The ADA is also restricting how health 62 care workers may protect themselves cont from contagious patients. (The CDC has identified 120 cases of documented or pos- sible occupational transmission of AIDS/HIV to health care workers, and hepatitis B kills over 200 health care workers a year.) The official news maga- zine of the American Dental Association warned dentists last November that "dentists should be aware that they could be charged with discrimination for using 'extra precaution' while treating HIV patients. Unfortunately, federal policy toward contagious diseases seems increasingly simply a question of clout in Washington. In 1990, the International Association of Fire Fighters-a politically powerful union-succeeded in persuading Congress to include a provision in a law requiring that emergency response employees be no- tified when they had been exposed to air- borne infectious disease. It is peculiar to see how far federal law goes to protect firefighters, in- fected or otherwise. Firefighters must be notified when they have been ex- posed to the plague-even though "per- son-to-person transmission of plague has not been documented since 1924," as a Federal Register notice observed Monday. Firefighters and emergency medical technicians have a federal right to be notified any time they are in the same vehicle with a person with TB-yet hospital patients have no right to be notified when their surgeon is HIV positive, despite the CDC study showing that there could be an 8% chance that an HIV-infected surgeon will effectively kill one of his patients by spreading HIV. Federal policy makers act as if it is more important to minimize prejudice against people with infectious diseases than to minimize the spread of the dis- eases themselves. The Americans with Disabilities Act is creating a "civil right" that is the antithesis of individual rights- of freedom of contract-and of the right of informed consent. Maybe someday some- one will make a movie about it. Mr. Bovard writes often on public policy. 63 Stan Herr MEMORANDUM TO JOE VALASQUEZ FROM: Paul Steven Miller -634-9610 DATE: March 21, 1994 SUBJECT: Need Commitments Independent Living ( Town Hall Meeting May 2, 1994 during the NCIL Meetings Attendance and Participation by the First Lady Co-sponsored by Senators Kennedy and Harkin April 28th Gala Fundraiser - 250-350people. Administration Presence??? Carol Rasco??? July 26th ADA Event Make it a Healthcare event -- Bush Signed the ADA but did not have the courage to tackle healthcare reform. Healthcare makes the promise of the ADA a reality. President ties healthcare to the ADA. 1000 South Lawn Large gathering of folks on the South Lawn and then they go up to the Hill to lobby for healthcare reform. Other Issues Surrogate Training on Healthcare during the NCIL Meetings Lack of Disabled Surrogates Speaking on Healthcare Reform National Council on Disability -- disability community is pushing very hard for the resignation of all of the Reagan and Bush appointees March 17, 1994 MEMORANDUM TO EMILY, POLITICAL AFFAIRS FROM: DINA DK RE: COALITION OF CITIZENS WITH DISABILITIES The following people from the disability community attended the meeting with J. Veronica Biggins on March 16, 1994: Becky Ogle Patrisha Wright Paul March Denise Rozell Justin Dart Ann Marie Hughey Curt Decker Mike Lux from Public Liaison also attended the meeting. Withdrawal/Redaction Marker Clinton Library DOCUMENT NO. SUBJECT/TITLE DATE RESTRICTION AND TYPE 001. memo Joe Velasquez to Waves; RE: Personally Identifiable Information 03/16/1994 b(6) [partial] (1 page) COLLECTION: Clinton Presidential Records Political Affairs Peter Shakow; Joe Velasquez OA/Box Number: 5120 FOLDER TITLE: Disabled Community 2007-0143-F db4520 RESTRICTION CODES Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)] Freedom of Information Act - 15 U.S.C. 552(b)] P1 National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRAJ b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIAJ P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office |(a)(2) of the PRAJ b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of P3 Release would violate a Federal statute ((a)(3) of the PRA] an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA] P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA] financial information [(a)(4) of the PRAJ b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President information [(b)(4) of the FOIA] and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA] b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA] personal privacy |(a)(6) of the PRA] b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA] C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of of gift. financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA] PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C. b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information 2201(3). concerning wells |(b)(9) of the FOIA] RR. Document will be reviewed upon request. March 16, 1994 MEMO TO WAVES FROM: JOE VELASQUEZ, ROOM 115, EXT 6-6257 RE: WAVE REQUESTS FOR 3/17 Please wave the following people in to see me at 2 PM in Room 115. Curtis Decker [001] Ann Marie Hughey Becky Ogle (b)(6) Denise Rozell Leonard Rubinstein Patrisha Wright Thank you. Clinton Library Photocopy 03/16/94 18:02 202 347 4023 NADDC 001 NATIONAL 200 ASSOCIATION OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COUNCILS 1234 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Suite 103 Washington, DC 20005 202-347-1234 FAX COVER TO: Emily = Political FAX: 456-7929 FROM: Denise Rocell (FAX 202-347-4023) DATE: 3/16/94 NO. OF PAGES TO FOLLOW: 1 MESSAGE: Emily- - Here is a copy of the memo I sent to Peter with the addition of Ann Marie Thanks! Denve Withdrawal/Redaction Marker Clinton Library DOCUMENT NO. SUBJECT/TITLE DATE RESTRICTION AND TYPE 002. memo Denise Rozell to Peter Shakow; RE: Personally Identifiable 03/03/1994 b(6) Information [partial] (1 page) COLLECTION: Clinton Presidential Records Political Affairs Peter Shakow; Joe Velasquez OA/Box Number: 5120 FOLDER TITLE: Disabled Community 2007-0143-F db4520 RESTRICTION CODES Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)] Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)] P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA| b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA] P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA] b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA| an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA] P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA] financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA| b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President information [(b)(4) of the FOIA] and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRAJ b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA] personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA] b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA] C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of of gift. financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA] PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C. b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information 2201(3). concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA] RR. Document will be reviewed upon request. 03/16/94 18:02 202 347 4023 .NADDC 002 NATIONAL 200 ASSOCIATION OF DEVELOPMENTAL STAM Hair DISABILITIES COUNCILS 1234 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Suite 103 Washington, DC 20005 202-347-1234 TO: Peter Shakow FROM: Denise Rozell DATE: March 3, 1994 RE: Attendance at March 17, 1994 Meeting with Joe Velasquez Peter - Here are the names and dates of birth of the people who will be attending the meeting at 2:00 pm on March 17, 1994 with Joe Velasquez. I also included their phone numbers in case you need them. Call me if you have any questions. [002] Curtis Decker - (b)(6) National Association of Protection and Advocacy Systems 202-408-9514 Ann Marie Hughey - (b)(6) National Council on Independent Living 703-525-3406 Becky Ogle - (b)(6) National Association of Medical Equipment Services 703-836-6263 Denise Rozell - (b)(6) National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils 202-347-1234 Leonard Rubinstein - (b)(6) Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law the 202-467-5730 Patrisha Wright - (b)(6) Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund 202-986-0375 STAM Uni HAREbe, 8150 #1 de onutreal WA bility roon These people met w Note any one else should be J. veronica Biggins + there Mike Lux yesterday to Complain that the WH Clinton Library Photocopy ianoring them, etc. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON March 29, 1994 MEMORANDUM FOR DAVID KUSNET From: Joe Velasquez Subject: Presidential Statements and the Disabled Community In recent meetings, leaders of the disabled community expressed to me their concern that, while the President does a good job of including diverse groups through his speeches and statements, disabled Americans are perennially left out. Can your shop help address this problem (whether it is perception or reality)? Thanks. MEMORANDUM TO JOE VALASQUEZ Reterme Herr FROM: Paul Steven Miller -634-9610 is DATE: March 21, 1994 SUBJECT: Need Commitments Independent living Town Hall Meeting May 2, 1994 during the NCIL Meetings Attendance and Participation by the First Lady Co-sponsored by Senators Kennedy and Harkin April 28th Gala Fundraiser - 250-350 people. Administration Presence??? Carol Rasco??? July 26th ADA Event - Make it a Healthcare event -- Bush Signed the ADA but did not have the courage to tackle healthcare reform. Healthcare makes the promise of the ADA a reality. President ties healthcare to the ADA. 1000 South lawn Large gathering of folks on the South Lawn and then they go up to the Hill to lobby for healthcare reform. Other Issues Surrogate Training on Healthcare during the NCIL Meetings Lack of Disabled Surrogates Speaking on Healthcare Reform National Council on Disability -- disability community is pushing very hard for the resignation of all of the Reagan and Bush appointees * Communication = INCLUDE PEOPLE WITH DISAMUNES is PANT of AMERICA MESSAGE Denise NAT ASSO of Dispiner COUNCILS people w/ develying distates CCD civl Rights Derek protection & Advoccy 6 legal requestitus Cocus ON AOA Becky WAS ASQU for med Eq LEN mustal leyal & policy issus Nat! Suppert cuty 02/15/94 17:35 Z 512 492 0022 over 02/08/94 12187 X 512 442 8522 AD#PT OF TX P.84 ADAPT FREE OUR PEOPLE jv- Action? The President of the United states The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20500 No January 12, 1994 My Dear Mr. President: ADAPT (American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today) wants to personally meet with you when ADAPT comes to Washington in April, 1994. The purpose of this meeting will be to discuss your admin- istration's continuing commitment to the inclusion of community- based personal attendant services in the Health Security Act as it works its way through Congress this spring. ADAPT's position is that no matter what form the Health Security Act takes it must include a section on a community-based attend- ant services program that every state must participate in. This program must have a minimum set of standards that every state would have to meet, with no exception. These standards should include, but not be limited to: 1) availability based on functional need, 2) availability for people of all ages, 3) allowing maximum control of the service both in an agency administered system as well as a direct pay situation, 4) availability 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with provisions for back-up and emergency services, 5) allowing for cost sharing for people with higher incomes, and 6) allowing for health-related tasks to be performed by unlicensed persons in certain instances. This meeting with ADAPT will show your commitment to make commu- nity-based attendant services a reality for the thousands of Americans with disabilities and their families, (regardless of their age or disability) who are faced with institutional place- ment. The members of ADAPT have personal experience with the institutional bias of our current long-term service system. Many have been warehoused in nursing homes and other large institu- tions for people with disabilities. They want to meet with you this spring! 12 Broadway Denver, Colorado 80203 303 733 9324 .... 02/15/94 17:35 = 512 442 0522 AD@PT OF TX P.03 02/08/94 12:08 2 512 442 0522 ADOPT OF TX P.85 ADAPT FREE OUR PEOPLE You have talked about the health security that every American should expect. In these talks, however, you have not emphasized how important a community-based, long term service system is for people with disabilities, regardless of age or disability. You emphasize the medical aspects of your program, but do not give as much time to the long-term support needs of people with disabili- ties. These support services will, in fact, improve the overall health of those receiving services and avoid or delay costly doctor or hospital costs. Your long-term service plan still keeps nursing home placement as an entitlement, while capping the home and community section of the plan. You must challenge the stranglehold the nursing home industry has on our long-term care system and make home and community based attendant services the focus of your long-term service system. This meeting could be an opportunity for you to make a major speach on the need for a community based, long term care system in this country. This meeting will focus the American public on the need for these long term in home supports and send a message to the 42 million disabled Americans that your administration is committed to providing the services needed to keep people as independent and productive as possible. The opportunity for change has never been better. Your leader- ship is critical if the long term care portion of the Health Security Act is to remain. We would appreciate your response by March 1, 1994. For An Institution Free America, AV M Michael W. Auberger National Organizer 12 Broadway Denver, Colorado 80203 303 733 9324 2000 ADAPT ATLANTIS 15:11 16/21/10 THE WALL STREET JOURNAL. DATE: 3/23/9 File PAGE: A-14 Disabilities Law, Health Hazard By JAMES BOVARD AIDS-infected waiter who had taken a There are roughly 7,000 HIV-positive The movie "Philadelphia," portray- leave after coming down with double pneu- physicians in the U.S. A 1992 Centers for ing a law firm's discrimination against monia. (The Hartford Courant noted that Disease Control study observed that, un- an AIDS-infected lawyer. won two Acad- the waiter "started losing weight and be- der one set of assumptions, "the estimated emy Awards Monday night. While the came sluggish and weak. He left food un- probability that (an HIV-infected) surgeon movie is generating sympathy for peo- der the warmers too long. and his hands will transmit HIV at least once during the ple with AIDS, little attention is being shook so much that he couldn't carry cock- rest of his/her career is 8.1%." paid to the people whose lives are be- tail trays.") Even if a doctor with HIV lies to his ing endangered by federal policies that The presumptions created in the ADA patients and claims not to be infectious, increasingly prevent companies from can turn every decision about the job and he is still entitled to full protection un- protecting employees or customers from work assignments of a contagious indi- der the ADA. Philip Benson, a Min- contagious fatal diseases. Few people vidual into a court battle. Civil-rights pol- neapolis physician, continued delivering realize how expansive the Americans icy concerning contagious diseases is in- babies and doing invasive genital and With Disabilities Act is, and how it can fluencing firefighting. In a path-breaking rectal examinations for nearly a year threaten their own health. case last December, federal judge Joyce after he came down with AIDS; the Min- The Supreme Court laid the ground- Hens Green ruled that the District of Co- nesota Board of Medical Examiners in work for a broad protection of the rights of lumbia fire department violated an infec- September 1990 permitted him to con- contagious people in a 1987 decision that a tious firefighter's civil rights because he tinue practicing even after he had open school board wrongfully fired a teacher was specifically prohibited from doing sores on his hands and arms as long as with tuberculosis. Under the ADA, passed mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. But the he wore double gloves. Dr. Benson re- in 1990, "any physiological disorder or con- firefighter had hepatitis B, which infects portedly lied to his patients when they dition which substantially limits one of a 300,000 people and kills 7,000 people a asked questions about his sores and his person's 'major life activities' can be year. sharp weight loss, and also allegedly classified as a handicap that employers The biggest impact of the new discrim- failed to wear gloves during some ex- are prohibited from discriminating ination-contagion philosophy is on health aminations. against. Since contagious diseases are care. The federal Department of Health While many HIV-infected surgeons vol- physiological disorders-voila!-discrimi- and Human Services penalized a Westch- untarily cease practicing, others are not so nating against people with contagious dis- ester County, N.Y., hospital in 1992 be- inclined. In late 1992, an AIDS-infected or- ease can be a federal crime. cause it prevented an HIV-positive phar- thopedic surgeon. sued Mercy Catholic Employers are now required to hire macist from preparing intravenous solu- Medical Center of Philadelphia for revok- people with contagious diseases unless tions, even though the hospital did offer ing his hospital privileges. The hospital of- they can prove that the pharmacist another position where fered to allow the surgeon to continue the person poses a there was far less danger of transmitting REGULATORY practicing if his patients signed consent large risk to other the disease: forms stating that they had been informed workers or their cus- CHOKEHOLD Hospital, the journal of the American of the doctor's HIV status. The surgeon tomers. The Equal Hospital Association, noted that the sued. American Medical News noted, "Ad- Employment Oppor- Westchester hospital "justified its stance vocates for people with HIV insist that re- tunity Commission, in its implementing by noting its large number of very ill pa- quiring notification [of patients) is tanta- regulations for the ADA, announced: "De- tients and that pharmacists often stick mount to revoking [hospital] privileges." termining whether an individual poses a themselves accidentally and must break The suit is still pending. significant risk of substantial harm to oth- glass vials in order to prepare IV solutions. The failure of policies that indulge in- ers must be made on a case by case basis." In a worst-case scenario pharmacists fectious surgeons was made stark in a re- "Significant risk" was defined in congres- could stick themselves with a fine-gauge cent investigation of a UCLA surgeon who sional reports authorizing the law as a needle and be unaware of it. That needle spread hepatitis B to 18 patients undergo- high probability of substantial harm. would then be inserted in a bag with solu- ing heart surgery in 1991-92. Amazingly, Restaurants are now obliged to give the tions, contaminate the solution, and then the hospital had tested the surgeon, dis- benefit of the doubt to potentially conta- infect a patient." But federal officials covered he was infected, and yet still per- gious job applicants. James Coleman, an ruled that the hospital violated the rights mitted him to continue operating without attorney for the National Council of Chain of the infectious pharmacist. The hospital warning patients of the additional deadly Restaurants, observed in 1992, "What we was forced to pay him $330,000 for, among risks they faced. The hepatitis was appar- were told in no uncertain terms was We other things, the "emotional damage" it ently spread to patients through tiny holes [Congress] are going to use the restaurant had inflicted on him. in surgical gloves. The New York Times industry as a vehicle for forcing a change Federal regulations are resulting in a noted yesterday that "the hospital's deci- in public attitude with respect to AIDS. If cloak of secrecy being imposed on what sion to allow the surgeon to keep on oper- it costs you money. too bad.' may be life-or-death information to pa- ating even after he was found to be in- It is extremely unlikely that someone tients. The ADA gave health care work- fected is in compliance with federal could contract AIDS as a result of eating a ers the right to continue performing in- guidelines." meal prepared by an AIDS-infected per- vasive surgery without disclosing to pa- The UCLA case makes a mockery of son. but such individuals often are hit by tients that there is a risk that they could the CDC's universal precautions-which, other illnesses-such as tuberculosis-that contract AIDS from the health care if followed, supposedly protect patients are contagious.. A Farmington, Conn., provider. from infected doctors and dentists. Yet, restaurant was sued by the state Commis- studies in recent years have found that sion on Human Rights and Opportunities as many as 47% of gloves suffer from after the réstaurant refused to rehire an defects, punctures or leaks during surgery. The ADA is also restricting how health 62 care workers may protect themselves con from contagious patients. (The CDC has identified 120 cases of documented or pos- sible occupational transmission of AIDS/HIV to health care workers, and hepatitis B kills over 200 health care workers a year.) The official news maga- zine of the American Dental Association warned dentists last November that "dentists should be aware that they could be charged with discrimination for using 'extra precaution' " while treating HIV patients. Unfortunately, federal policy toward contagious diseases seems increasingly simply a question of clout in Washington. In 1990, the International Association of Fire Fighters-a politically powerful union-succeeded in persuading Congress to include a provision in a law requiring that emergency response employees be no- tified when they had been exposed to air- borne infectious disease. It is peculiar to see how far federal law goes to protect firefighters, in- fected or otherwise. Firefighters must be notified when they have been ex- posed to the plague-even though "per- son-to-person transmission of plague has not been documented since 1924." as a Federal Register notice observed Monday. Firefighters and emergency medical technicians have a federal right to be notified any time they are in the same vehicle with a person with TB-yet hospital patients have no right to be notified when their surgeon is HIV positive, despite the CDC study showing that there could be an 8% chance that an HIV-infected surgeon will effectively kill one of his patients by spreading HIV. Federal policy makers act as if it is more important to minimize prejudice against people with infectious diseases than to minimize the spread of the dis- eases themselves. The Americans with Disabilities Act is creating a "civil right" that is the antithesis of individual rights- of freedom of contract-and of the right of informed consent. Maybe someday some- one will make a movie about it. Mr. Bovard writes often on public policy. 63 Withdrawal/Redaction Marker Clinton Library DOCUMENT NO. SUBJECT/TITLE DATE RESTRICTION AND TYPE 003. memo Denise Rozell to Peter Shakow; RE: Personally Identifiable 03/21/1994 b(6) Information [partial] (1 page) COLLECTION: Clinton Presidential Records Political Affairs Peter Shakow; Joe Velasquez OA/Box Number: 5120 FOLDER TITLE: Disabled Community 2007-0143-F db4520 RESTRICTION CODES Presidential Records Act - |44 U.S.C. 2204(a)] Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)] P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA] b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA] P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA] b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA] an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA] P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA] financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA] b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President information [(b)(4) of the FOIA] and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA] b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA] personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA] b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement purposes |(b)(7) of the FOIA] C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of of gift. financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA| PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C. b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information 2201(3). concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA] RR. Document will be reviewed upon request. 03/21/94 16:44 202 347 4023 NADDC 002 NATIONAL 200 ASSOCIATION OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COUNCILS 1234 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Suite 103 Washington, DC 20005 202-347-1234 TO: Peter Shakow FROM: Denise Rozell Denise DATE: March 21, 1994 RE: Attendance at March 23, 1994 Meeting with Joe Velasquez Peter - Here are the names and dates of birth of the people who will be attending the follow-up meeting at 2:30 pm on March 23, 1994 with Joe Velasquez. I also included their phone numbers in case you need them. Call me if you have any questions. Justin Dart - (b)(6) [003] Curtis Decker - (b)(6) National Association of Protection and Advocacy Systems 202-408-9514 Ann Marie Hughey - (b)(6), National Council on Independent Living 703-525-3406 Paul Marchand - (b)(6) The Arc 202-785-3388 Becky Ogle - (b)(6) National Association of Medical Equipment Services 703-836-6263 Denise Rozell - (b)(6) National Association of Developmental Disabilities Councils 202-347-1234 Leonard Rubinstein - (b)(6) Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law 202-467-5730 Patrisha Wright - (b)(6) Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund 202-986-0375 Clinton Library Photocopy APR-01-1994 13:36 FROM US OFF. CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO 94567929 P.02 MEMORANDUM TO MIKE LUX, Special Assistant to the President FROM: Paul Steven Miller DATE: April 1, 1994 SUBJECT: POTUS Schedule and National Council on Disability Health Care Hearings -- Possibility of Arranging a Meeting with POTUS and Disabled Persons Involved in the Hearings. In looking at the President's schedule for next week, it appears that he will be in the same areas at the same time as some of the National Council on Disability Health Care Hearings. It would be a terrific hit for us if there is time for the President or First Lady to either (1) make an appearance at one of the hearings or (2) to meet with a group of persons with disabilities who either testified or will testify at the hearings. While I recognize that there may not be the time on his or her schedule to appear or become involved with one of the hearings, there may be time to arrange a short meeting with a group of persons with disabilities who are in town to testify at the hearing. The hearing in Topeka, Kansas on April 6, 1994 might present a good opportunity. Arranging a short meeting with a group of disabled persons involved in the hearings would be less burdensome to the President's schedule, would be relatively easy to set up, and would create tremendous excitement in the disability community. Such a meeting would not be in lieu of any events which are currently being discussed for May 2, 1994 in Washington. I have attached a copy of the schedule of National Council Hearings for your reference. Please do not hesitate to call me about this idea. Of course, a meeting between the President and/or First Lady and disabled leaders can be arranged in any of the cities in which he or she are planning to do health care events during the next week. cc: Joe Valasquez APR-01-1994 13:36 FROM US OFF. CONSUMER AFFAIRS TO 94567929 P.03 NATIONAL COUNCIL ON DISABILITY An independent federal agency working with the President and the Congress to increase the inclusion, independence, and empowerment of all Americans with disabilities. March 11, 1994 Dear Colleague: The National Council on Disability will host a series of town meetings on.making health care reform work for individuals with disabilities. The purpose of these town meetings is to give people with disabilities and Interested citizens an opportunity to fully participate in one of the most important issues before us today - health care reform. By paying close attention to the concerns of people with disabilities, we can have a tremendous impact on the scope and quality of future health care options for all Americans. The town meeting schedule, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., is as follows: March 30 San Diego, CA San Diego Hilton, 1775 E. Mission Bay Drive - Capri & Riviera Rooms April 5 Austin, TX Texas Rehabilitation Commission, Brown-Heatly Building, 4900 North Lamar Boulevard - Public Hearing Room April 6 Topeka, KS Ramada Inn, 420 SE 6th - Grand Ballroom April 9 New York, NY Holiday Inn Crown Plaza, 1605 Broadway . Act One Ballroom April 11 Philadelphia, PA Holiday Inn City Centre, 1800 Market Street Peale Baliroom We strongly encourage you to participate in the event scheduled in your area. If you have any questions or would like to reserve time for testimony in advance of the event, please contact Ramona Lessen or Mark Quigley at the numbers listed below. Please note that in order to provide time for every participant to let his or her views be known. testimony will be limited to five minutes per person. However, there will be time allotted at the end of each day for participants to meet, summarize their thoughts and forward this information to the Council. Please feel free to post or circulate this invitation to others who may be interested in participating. Also, feel free to reprint this letter or mention these events in any or your upcoming correspondence or newsletter mailings. Thank you for your work to increase the independence, self-sufficiency, and Inclusion of all Americans with disabilities. To accommodate those individuals who have environmental and chemical sensitivities, these meetings will be conducted in 8 smoke-free atmosphere and will be free of all aromatic fragrances. Also, sign language Interpreters will be provided. We look forward to seeing you soon. Sincerely, John A. Gannon Acting Chairperson 1331 F Street, N.W. Suite 1050 Washington, D.C. 20004-1107 (202) 272-2004 Voice (202) 272-2074 TT (202) 272-2022 Fax MEMORANDUM TO: Alexis Herman, OPL FROM: Bob Sevigny, DNC RE: Events for the Disability Community DATE: March 29, 1994 You asked for additional information on the two events for the disability community scheduled for May 2 that we previously discussed. Those events are: (1) a march over the Memorial Bridge to the Lincoln Memorial with a series of speeches planned at the Memorial; and (2) a proposed national disability teleconference on health care with the President or First Lady. Details on these events and relevant background information are set forth below: 1. Lincoln Memorial Event General Outline: This event is designed to emphasize the importance of health care reform and long term care to people with disabilities and to help mobilize the grass roots in support of these goals. The President or First Lady would be asked to make a ten to fifteen minute speech on the impact/benefit of health care reform and long term care on people with disabilities. If we thought it would be useful, an opportunity to take select questions from the audience or meet with representatives from the grassroots of the community could be easily arranged. Timing/Schedule: As currently planned, the march will begin at Arlington Cemetery and proceed across the Memorial Bridge at approximately 11:30 A.M. It is scheduled to arrive at the Lincoln Memorial at 12:40 P.M. Once the group arrives at the Lincoln Memorial there will be a series of speeches from approximately 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. The event organizers have provided a tentative schedule for the event (see attachment A) but have stated that they would make whatever adjustments are necessary to conform to the President's or the First Lady's schedule. Sponsors/Participants: March is sponsored principally by three major groups: - American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today (ADAPT), a national grassroots disability organization that will come to Washington to demonstrate in favor of health care reform and long term care. ADAPT was in Washington last summer for a march for attendant care services and met with HHS Secretary Schalala. - National Council on Independent Living (NCIL), perhaps the preeminent national grass roots organization of and by people with disabilities with Independent Living Centers serving people with disabilities in virtually every major metropolitan area in the nation; - National Rehabilitation Association (NRA), a national organization of persons working in rehabilitation and employment services for persons with disabilities. - In addition, most national disabilities organizations have national offices and local chapters or affiliates that will be participating in support of this event. If the President were to agree to speak at the Lincoln Memorial the organizers of this event would seek additional sponsors from major disability organizations and other groupings including the Long Term Care Campaign, AARP, and the Health Care Reform Project. 2 Other Invited Guests: Event organizers have invited Senator Edward Kennedy, Senator Tom Harkin, Representative Major Owens, Representative Pat Schroeder, and Justin Dart to address the audience. Crowd Size: As currently envisioned, without the President or First Lady, the march is expected to attract approximately 2,300 people. If the President or First Lady were to appear and sufficient advance notice of that fact was given (three to four weeks) crowd size could be substantially increased with cooperation from key organizations in the community. In addition, Justin Dart has offered to commit up to $10,000 to rent busses to bring people in from nearby communities. Other groups could also be expected to commit resources to bring people in to hear the President. Media Coverage: March organizers have an excellent track record in attracting media coverage in Washington and have hired media person to work this event. Prime Time Live from ABC and HBO Cable have already committed to cover this event. They have also been very successful in the past in obtaining coverage on CNN. Event organizers have already contacted all local and national media and they will arrange for radio, TV and print media interviews in advance of the main group of arriving in Washington. They will work with invited speakers media people to maximize media coverage. In addition, event planners intend to videotape the entire event and distribute the video tape throughout the community in support of health care reform. Clearly, news that the President or First Lady would address this group would tremendously increase media coverage of the event. *Positive Considerations: This will almost certainly be one of if not the largest disability event ever held even without the participation of the President or the First Lady. With their participation the event would clearly break all records for this community and would be an excellent vehicle for reaching via free media people with disabilities all across the nation. The audience will be composed of leaders and grassroots activists from the disability community from virtually every state and significant disability organization in the country including many people who would never otherwise have the opportunity to see or hear the President or the First Lady. Opportunities for media coverage will be very good. Event participants will spend the remainder of their time in Washington demonstrating in favor of health reform or lobbying members of Congress in support of health reform and long term care. *Concerns: Even with a very large crowd by disability community standards (5,000 to 10,000 people) the crowd at the Lincoln Memorial may look small to TV cameras that may cover the event thus diminishing its potential impact. Weather is another imponderable for such a large outdoor event although the event is scheduled to occur rain or shine. Finally, with a crowd this size, it is certainly possible that there may be some people opposed to actions by the President. This is particularly the case if it is perceived that the President has consented or acquiesced to the elimination of long term care from the health care plan. Event organizers have, however, given their word that there will be no negative incidents. With this in mind, the organizers have already told Act Up that they will not be permitted to participate in either the march or the Lincoln Memorial event. 3 2. National Town Meeting for People with Disabilities This event was apparently conceived of as either an alternative to or a supplement to the march and Lincoln Memorial event to attract the President or First Lady. The idea is again that it is critically important for the President or the First Lady to address the interests or concerns of people with disabilities to enable us to mobilize the grassroots of the community in support of the community. While few specific details on this proposal have been set, it appears that preliminary discussions were held between Pat Wright and Senator Kennedy's office and with Senator Harkin's staff. No commitments seem to have been made but there was apparently interest in the proposal. In addition, Justin Dart has reserved a large committee room in the Hart Senate Office Building on May 2 that was used for hearings on the American's with Disabilities Act. The concept is that the audience would be composed of a representative group of people with disabilities (leaders and grassroots) from all over the country that had come to Washington for the Lincoln Memorial event or other disability events occurring around that time. The audience size could number several hundred in the room that has been reserved. The format would probably be to have the President or First Lady give a brief introduction and overview of the health care and long term care and then allow questions and interaction from the studio audience and from persons at satellite down and up link locations across the country. If Senators Kennedy and Harkin were to participate in this event, they would presumably be given the opportunity to make brief opening statements and also respond to questions. Length of the event would probably be either an hour or an hour and a half. Down link sites could be set up across the country to permit the principals to interact with a large national audience. Additionally, if the President or First Lady were to agree to appear, discussions would begin with C-Span and other TV networks to arrange for the broadest possible national airing of this event. Finally, the entire event would be videotaped for distribution in the disability community. *Positive Considerations: The event would have the possibility of reaching a very wide national audience in the disability community. The audience and the questions could be carefully screened so there would be very little likelihood of an embarrassing situation. The room could easily be packed with people so there would be no concerns that the event would look small relative to other events conducted for other constituency groups. Also, there would be no concerns about weather impairing the event. This event would allow the President or the First Lady to directly address and energize the "grassroots" and leadership of the disability community on this critically important issue. This would be an unprecedented event that would clearly indicate the President's interest in this community and that he shares their concerns on this and other important issues. *Concerns: Clearly, the consensus of the disability community is that it is vital to have an event with the President or the First Lady on the subject of health care regardless of where the 4 ultimate location is or what forum is chosen. However, holding this town meeting event on the same day as the Lincoln Memorial event could be viewed as undercutting a large grass roots event and slighting some of those who traveled to Washington, at great cost and difficulty, to participate. If the decision is made to choose the televised national town meeting format over the Lincoln Memorial event, one solution to this problem could be to simply hold it on another date either shortly before or after the march or in the morning of the day on the day of the since timing would not be as critical for a teleconference. ADAPT FREE OUR PEOPLE March Participants: The march participants will be comprised of four different groups; 1. American Disabled for Attendant Programs Today, (ADAPT) members who have come from twenty-eight states to advocate for health care issues related to disability such as personal assistance services. ADAPT is a grassroots disability rights organization headquartered in Denver with approximately five thousand members in thirty-three states. ADAPT anticipates having five hundred members attending the march. 2. National Council for Independent Living, (NCIL) members will be holding their annual convention in Bethesda, Maryland. NCIL is an organization of four hundred Independent Living Center directors and staff who provide services and advocacy directors. NCIL will have approximately eight hundred members attend the march. 3. The National Rehabilitation Association, (NRA) will be holding their annual convention in Washington D.C.. NRA has over five thousand members who are employed in rehabilitation and employment services for people with disability. NRA will have approximately five hundred members attend the march. 12 Broadway Denver, Colorado 80203 303 733 9324 001 ADAPT ATLANTIS 3037339324 10:24 03/28/94 ADAPT FREE OUR PEOPLE 4. The Local Disability Community at large are individuals with disabilities who live within one hundred and fifty miles of Washington D.C.. As was the case with the ADA March the local community turned out in large numbers. The Local Disability Community will have approximately five hundred people attend the march. It is clear that the Bridge to Freedom March will be the largest disability event ever. 12 Broadway Denver, Colorado 80203 303 733 9324 900 ADAPT ATLANTIS 3337339324 10:24 03/28/94 03/28/94 12:19 2 512 442 0522 AD@PT OF TX P.02 OF STATE OF TEXAS OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR AUSTIN, TEXAS 78711 ANN W. RICHARDS GOVERNOR March 24, 1994 The Honorable William Jefferson Clinton The President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D. c. 20500 Dear Mr. President: I am writing in support of the provisions for home and community- bill. based care, including attendant services, in your health reform As you know, today's federal programs and health insurance policies have an institutional bias so people too often are forced into a hospital or nursing home to get the services they need. Living in an institution is usually more costly, and most people would choose to live in their own home rather than enter a hospital or nursing facility. They should have that choice. In Texas, we are implementing a Medicaid waiver to allow people to receive community-based services rather than being forced into nursing facilities. But to make community-based services available to everyone, we need for them to be covered under the national health reform bill. Representatives of the national ADAPT organization have requested a meeting with you in May. Members of the Texas chapter of ADAPT are committed and effective supporters of community services, and I believe they can have an impact on national health reform. I hope you can meet with their representatives. I appreciate your including home and community-based care as a Tum Renards part of health reform Sincerely, ANN W. RICHARDS Governor POST OFFICE Box 12428 At STIN. TEXAS 78711 0121 163 2000 (VOICE) (512) +75-3165(TDD) Printed (M) Reev. 1011 Paper ADAPT FREE OUR PEOPLE MEDIA: ADAPT over the past ten years has a long and successful history with the Washington print and visual media. ADAPT has built a local and national credibility with the media. ADAPT is already in contact with the D.C. media in preparation for our arrival in May. Primtime from ABC and HBO Cable have both committed to follow the events surrounding ADAPTs presence in Washington. All the local and national media have been contacted once. We are now arranging for radio, TV, and Newspaper interviews prior to the main body of ADAPT arriving. ADAPT will have one person assigned to media relations. Our media specialist has been dealing with the D.C. and national media for more than five years. ADAPTs media specialist will begin daily contacting the D.C. media approximately two weeks prior to our arrival. At that time we will begin to publizie the May 2, 1994 March. ADAPT will work with our invited speakers media liaison to insure the maximum media saturation. PARTICIPANTS ADAPT has invited Senator Kennedy, Representative Owens, Justin Dart and Representative Shroeder to speak to the disability community attending the march and events at the Lincoln Memorial on May 2, 1994. At this time not all of our speakers have confirmed their appearance. If the President or the First Lady accept their invitation we will adjust the schedule to accommodate theirs. ADAPT will make any accommodations necessary to our program to permit the President or First Lady to address the crowd. All speakers will be addressing Health Care Reform and and its effects on people with disabilities. 12 Broadway Denver, Colorado 80203 303 733 9324 900 ADAPT ATLANTIS 23037339324 10:25 03/28/94 ADAPT FREE OUR PEOPLE A BRIDGE TO FREEDOM HEALTH CARE MAY 2, 1994 PROPOSED AGENDA 11:30 A.M. - March leaves Arlington Cemetery 12:40 P.M. - March arrives Lincoln Memorial via Memorial Bridge 12:50 P.M. - Music performed by Johnny Creshendo 12:55 P.M. - M.C. Bob Kafka welcomes crowd Introduces Justin Dart 01:00 P.M. - Justin Dart Speakers 01:10 P.M. - Bob Kafka introduces Rep. Major Owens 01:10 P.M. - Rep. Owens speaks 01:20 P.M. - Bob Kafka introduces Stefanie Thomas 01:20 P.M. - Stefanie Thomas speaks 01:30 P.M. - Bob Kafka introduces Senator Ted Kennedy 01:30 P.M. - Senator Kennedy speaks 01:40 P.M. - Bob Kafka introduces Johnny Creshendo 12 Broadway Denver, Colorado 80203 303 733 9324 002 ADAPT ATLANTIS 3037339324 10:23 03/28/94 ADAPT FREE OUR PEOPLE A BRIDGE TO FREEDOM HEALTH CARE MAY 2, 1994 PROPOSED AGENDA 01:40 P.M. - Johnny Creshendo performs 01:45 P.M. - Bob Kafka introduces President Clinton 01:45 P.M. - President Clinton addresses crowd 01:55 P.M. - Bob Kafka thanks the President and Introduces Michael Auberger 01:55 P.M. - Michael Auberger speaks 02:05 P.M. - Bob Kafka closes ceremonies 02:05 P.M. - Johnny Creshendo performs 02:05 P.M. - Crowd begins to disperse 02:10 P.M. - Cleaning crew begins 02:25 P.M. - Required cleaning ends 12 Broadway Denver, Colorado 80203 303 733 9324 003 ADAPT ATLANTIS 3037339324 10:23 03/28/94 Joe- since you met w/ disability types w/ OPC & DNC thought you may want to make sure that they are aware of this. D don't know if it has been announced - get ROUTING SLIP DATE: 4/18/94 FROM: Ricki Seidman Assistant to the President and Director of Scheduling and Advance TO: SUBJECT: galludet University Baer Street Speech writing X JOAN BAGGETT PAT GRIFFIN REBECCA CAMERON JOHN PODESTA MARK GEARAN JACK QUINN DAVID GERGEN CAROL RASCO CINDY GIRE BOB RUBIN MARCIA HALE PATTI SOLIS ALEXIS HERMAN GEORGE STEPHANOPOULOS NANCY HERNREICH ANN STOCK HAROLD ICKES CHRISTINE VARNEY PHIL LADER DAVID WATKINS ANTHONY LAKE ANNA WINDERBAUM Fy BRUCE LINDSEY MAGGIE WILLIAMS MACK McLARTY MELANNE VERVEER FILE: Accepted JOE VELASQUEZ TONY WILSON cc: Cassie O'Neice FOR YOUR INFORMATION X ADVICE ACTION COMMENTS: anna 1 had UolNerada - Y Hope ARK High that day opsionsly can't do. Fyi you may already know This colleen THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON Schedule Proposal 3/24/94-- UPDATED ACCEPT REGRET PENDING Ricki Seidman, Assistant to the President for Scheduling and Advance OM: Susan Brophy, Legislative Affairs REQUEST: POTUS deliver commencement address, Gallaudet PURPOSE: This is important to Majority Whip Bonior. BACKGROUND: Rep. Bonior is a trustee of Gallaudet University. The school recently appointed its first deaf president (after they had originally offered the position to a hearing administrator.) Bonior was a supporter of appointing a deaf president and thinks it would be a nice gesture on your part if you spoke at their graduation ceremony. Update At the WH Democratic Caucus reception, 3/23/94, POTUS told Bonior he would do this event. DATE AND TIME: May 13, 1994, 1:30 p.m. DURATION: To be determined LOCATION: University Field House, Gallaudet University, D.C. PARTICIPANTS: Faculty, graduates OUTLINE OF EVENTS: To be determined REMARKS REQUIRED: Speechwriting MEDIA COVERAGE: Probably VICE PRESIDENT'S ATTENDANCE: Optional RECOMMENDED BY: Legislative Affairs CONTACT: Susan Brophy (x62231), Karen Hancox (x66620) on 3.23@ reception POTUS told Bariones THE WHITE HOUSE 3.24 memo Richi needsto ash WASHINGTON POTUS Schedule Proposal 3/17/94 94 MAR 18 A10 22 ACCEPT REGRET PENDING TO: 3.22 memo Ricki Seidman, Assistant to the President for Scheduling and Advance FROM: pending. Susan Brophy, Legislative Affairs REQUEST: POTUS deliver commencement address, Gallaudet. PURPOSE: This is important to Majority Whip Bonior. BACKGROUND: Rep. Bonior is a trustee of Gallaudet University. The school recently appointed its first deaf president (after they had originally offered the position to a hearing administrator.) Bonior was a supporter of appointing a deaf president and thinks it would be a nice gesture on your part if you spoke at their graduation ceremony. DATE AND TIME: May 13, 1994, 1:30 p.m. DURATION: To be determined LOCATION: University Field House, Gallaudet University, D.C. PARTICIPANTS: Faculty, graduates OUTLINE OF EVENTS: To be determined REMARKS REQUIRED: Speechwriting MEDIA COVERAGE: Probably VICE PRESIDENTS ATTENDANCE: Optional RECOMMENDED BY: Legislative Affairs CONTACT: Susan Brophy (x62231), Karen Hancox (x66620) GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY COPY Office of the President 800 Florida Avenue, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002-3695 (202) 651-5005 February 24, 1994 The President The White House Washington, D.C. 20500 My dear Mr. President: It is with great pleasure that I write to invite you to speak at the 125th Commencement of Gallaudet University on May 13, 1994. Several hundred bright and talented young people from across the country and around the world will be sent off with not only a degree from Gallaudet but with a great sense of self-confidence and a fierce determination to make this world a better place. Our commencement is especially noteworthy in this day and age when disabled citizens are demonstrating as never before that we expect the same rights and responsibilities as our fellow men and women who may be "differently abled." On this occasion, we would also be honored to present you with an Honorary Degree, recognizing the extraordinary life of public service to which you have long been dedicated. As you may know, Gallaudet University was established by an Enabling Act passed by Congress and signed into law in 1864 by President Abraham Lincoln. Since that time the University has been honored by the presence of dignitaries from the White House, the Congress, and various departments of the government. The history of these visits records seven former Presidents of the United States including Ulysses S. Grant, James A. Garfield, Chester Arthur, Grover Cleveland, Benjamin Harrison, Theodore Roosevelt and Lyndon B. Johnson. Since President Lincoln signed Gallaudet's Charter, every sitting President has served as Patron of the University and, beginning with President Lincoln, the diplomas which are awarded to Gallaudet graduates are signed by the President of the United States. I write today also to explain why your presence at our 125th Commencement would be so special. Recently, one of your fellow Arkansans, Dr. Glenn Anderson, was elected Chairman of the Gallaudet University Board of Trustees. Dr. Anderson is the second deaf person and the first African-American to hold this significant position. You no doubt recall that Dr. Anderson The President February 24, 1994 Page Two served on your Governor's Commission on People with Disabilities from 1983 to 1989 and was Chairman from 1987 to 1989. He is currently Director of Training for the Rehabilitation and Research Training Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock, where he also holds the rank of professor. His wife, Karen, worked with Judy Steelman, the Volunteer Coordinator at Clinton/Gore Headquarters in Little Rock, where she assisted in opening up your campaign to deaf people through staff training in the use of TDDs and how to handle TDD calls. In addition, our Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Roslyn Rosen, was a member of your transition team in her (then) capacity as President of the National Association of the Deaf. Finally, one of our most outstanding students, Warren Snipe, was honored to be invited to the Martin Luther King Day celebration at Howard University where you spoke. Warren was chosen to bring greetings on behalf of Gallaudet University on this occasion. He recounted to me with great excitement how he had met you at the White House reception later that day and personally invited you to attend his commencement ceremonies this coming May. Mr. President, please consider according Dr. Anderson, Warren, our wonderful class of graduates and their families and friends the great honor of your presence at Gallaudet's 125th Commencement on Friday, May 13, 1994, at 1:30 p.m. in our University Field House. Your presence on this occasion would continue the long tradition of Presidential visits to this national and international center of learning for deaf people, and would be perceived by disabled people across the nation and those who serve them as an expression of your continued interest and concern for those Americans who have an additional challenge in life and who meet this challenge boldly. I await with great hope your favorable acceptance of this invitation to address the Gallaudet University Class of 1994 in the name of the high office which you hold as Patron of this University. Sincerely, /s/ I. King Jordan President IKJ/mtd THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON OFFICE OF POLITICAL AFFAIRS PHONE: . (202) 456-6257 FAX: (202) 456-7929 JOE VELASQUEZ TOM EPSTEIN RETA LEWIS LINDA MOORE PETER SHAKOW JOE TRAHERN KAREN ANDERSON OTHER To: Cindy Gire Date: # of Pages 2 (including cover) Fax Number: 66298 Office Number: Message: CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION New Jersey has 13 members in the House of Representatives; seven Democrats and six Republicans. Both Senators are Democratic. U.S. Senator Bill Bradley (D) has served since 1979. He currently serves on the Energy & Natural Resources; Finance; and Special Aging Committees. Senator Bradley was one of the biggest supporters of NAFTA in the Senate and led the fight for the treaty on the Senate floor. He is not up for re-election until 1996. U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D) has served since 1983. He currently serves on the Appropriations; Budget; Environment & Public Works and Small Business committees. Senator Lautenberg voted against the President's budget package this spring and against the NAFTA in November. He is up for re-election this year. New Jersey's 4th Congressional District. Republican Christopher Smith represents Trenton and its eastern surroundings. In his seventh term, Smith has a surprisingly strong reelection rate for a Republican in this Democratic town. His main focus in Congress has been abortion -- he was executive director of the New Jersey Right to Life Committee before being elected -- and he has gained somewhat of a national following for his high profile opposition to the Freedom of Choice Act and other pro-choice legislation. His position on this issue matches that of many of his (predominantly Catholic) constituents. His interest extends to children's issues. The other members of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation are: Rep. William J. Hughes (D) Rep. Jim Saxton (R) Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D) Rep. Christopher H. Smith (R) Rep. Robert C. Torricelli (D) Rep. Marge Roukema (R) Rep. Robert Menendez (D) Rep. Bob Franks (R) why Rep. Robert E. Andrews (D) Rep. Dean Gallo (R) Rep. Herbert C. Klein (D) Rep. Dick Zimmer (R) Rep. Donald Payne (D) HERE Notes: Representatives who voted for the NAFTA are in bold. Representatives facing difficult races are in italics. where you Give Duna gml <<< 5 Thentan will be openling the m THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON March 29, 1994 MEMORANDUM FOR CINDY GIRE X 6640 From: Joe Velasquez Subject: National Council for Independent Living Speaking Request The National Council for Independent Living (NCIL) would be honored to have Mrs. Gore as a speaker for their gala dinner here in Washington on April 28, and I hope you will give the invitation full consideration. The NCIL is one of the nation's premier organizations that promotes the rights of disabled people, serving as a national voice for the independent living movement, playing a key role in the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act and keeping a watchful eye on its implementation. (This year marks the final stage in the law's implementation.) Approximately 250 - 300 of the organization's (and the disabilities rights movement's) top political activists and opinion leaders will attend this dinner, which kicks off their annual meeting. It will be a terrific opportunity to address the concerns this group has regarding the health care reform plan as it relates to the disabled community. Many leaders and grassroots activists in this constituency group are angry with the lack of attention their special needs with regard to health care reform have been given. Mrs. Gore's presence at the dinner would go a long way towards assuaging their discontent. Please advise. Thanks. PRESIDENTIAL APPOINTEES WITH DISABILITY 4/26/94 PUBLICLY ANNOUNCED APPOINTEE POSITION Last Name First Name Title Designation Dept/Agency Type Heumann Judith Asst Secretary Special Educ & Rehab Service Education, Department of PAS Torres-Gil Fernando Asst Secretary Aging Health & Human Svcs, Dept of PAS Lindsay Reginald C Judge Massachusetts Judges, US District Court PAS Acheson Eleanor D Asst Atty Gen (Legal Policy) Justice, Department of PAS Verderber Nancy Member Presidential Scholars, Comm on PA Brown Jesse Secretary Veterans Affairs, Department of PAS Vogel Raymond J Under Secretary Benefits Veterans Affairs, Department of PAS Brickhouse Eugene A Asst Secretary (Human Resources & Admin) Veterans Affairs, Department of PAS Starkloff Max Member WH Fellowships, Pres Comm on PA Bristo Marca Chair & Member Disability, National Council on PAS 0'Day Bonnie Member Disability, National Council on PAS Wolters Kate P Member Disability, National Council on PAS Alioto Michele Member Disability, National Council on PAS Walker Hughey Member Disability, National Council on PAS Schroeder Fredric K Commissioner Rehabilitation Services Admin Education, Department of PAS Employment of People with Disabilities, President's Jacobson Neil Vice-Chair Cmte on PA Prepared by: Information Systems Group Office of Presidential Personnel 1 Noncareer SES, Schedule C and Other Appointees with Disability 4/26/94 Publicly Announced Last Name First Name Title Area Dept/Agency edA1 Aamodt RV Mail Analyst White House Correspondence The White House AD Allem Janet C. Deputy Chief of Staff Finance & Administration Agency for Intl Development AD Boorstin Robert Spec Asst to the Pres for Policy Coordination Ofc of Communications The White House AD Breedlove James W. Regional Administrator Region VI Small Business Administration C Butler-Bush Tonia Staff Assistant/Writer White House Correspondence The White House AD Carey Paul Spec Asst to the Pres (Senate) Ofc of Legislative Affairs The White House AD Clarkson Shirley Director Office of Public Affairs Archives & Records Admin, Nat'l C Deane Bonnie L. Assoc Dir/Sci, Tech, & Infra (Human Res)/NEC Ofc of Policy Development- NEC The White House AD Derian Michael Confidential Assistant to the Administrator Federal Crop Insurance Corporation Agriculture, Department of C Gwin Holly L. General Counsel Office of Science & Tech Policy C Itzkoff Donald M. Deputy Administrator Federal Railroad Administration Transportation, Department of SES Jones Robert L. Special Assistant to the Sec & Dep'ty Sec Office of the Secretary Veterans Affairs, Department of C Livingstone Craig Asst to the Counsel to the Pres (Security) Ofc of General Counsel The White House AD May Joyce Asst Director, Administrative Oper Divis Ofc of Administration The White House AD Mitchell Beatriz de Obaldia Special Assistant OSERS Education, Department of C Moses Howard R. Deputy Assistant Secretary Office of Spec Ed & Rehab Services Education, Department of SES Parisi Patricia Special Assistant Office of the Secretary Education, Department of C Pearlstein Deborah N. Writer The White House AD Savage Elizabeth Special Assistant Civil Rights Division Justice, Department of C Seelman Katherine D. Director Nat'l Inst on Disability & Rehabilitation Rsrch Education, Department of SES Shiffrin Richard L. Deputy Assistant AG Office of Legal Counsel Justice, Department of SES Spires Cynthia Ann (Thes) Special Assistant Ofc of Asst to the Sec for Field Mngmnt Housing & Urban Dev, Dept of C Tecklenberg Michael H. Spec Assistant to the Assistant Attorney General Office of Antitrust Justice, Department of C Weintraub Philip Assistant Mail Clerk White House Correspondence The White House AD Williams Robert Director Admin for Developmental Disabilities-ACF Health & Human Svcs, Dept of SES Winter Michael A. Special Assistant to the Opty Associate Secretary Office of Intermodolism Transportation, Department of C Zwally Kurt D. Staff Assistant Ofc of Policy Development- Env Pol The White House AD Prepared by: Information Systems Group Office of Presidential Personnel 1 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON ATTORNEY CLIENT PRODUCT PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL FOR INTERNAL DISTRIBUTION ONLY June 22, 1994 MEMORANDUM FOR WHITE HOUSE DISABILITIES EVENT PLANNING GROUP TODD CAMPBELL CHRIS CERF JOE VALASQUEZ DEBBIE FINE MIKE LUX BOB BOORSTIN PAUL MILLER STAN HERR FROM: JOEL KLEIN MARVIN KRISLOV mr RE: Future Plans In our initial meeting, we discussed various tasks to be undertaken in connection with the planned July 26 event to celebrate the anniversary of passage of the ADA. We have planned a meeting for this Friday, June 24 at 2:00 p.m. in the Bisenhower Room Room of the White House Conference Center and have invited 211 selected outside persons to attend. Below please find a list of tasks and suggested assignments; your input is welcome. We anticipate the Friday meeting will focus on the July 26 event. We hope that other groups will meet and begin work on other tasks in the meantime. 1. Event Planning Confirm date. Coordinate with community. Involve agencies and identify activities, speakers, etc. All hands- Valasquez, Miller, etc. 2. Record of Accomplishments/Message: In preparation for event but also in general terms. Need to coordinate with agencies to identify accomplishments, prepare materials, and pinpoint future goals. DETERMINED TO BE AN ADMINISTRATIVE MARKING Per E.O. 13526 Sec. 3.2(C) Initials: PB Date: 11/6/17 Herr, Boorstin, Fine, Lux along with agencies esp. Savage (DOJ), Labor, Education, SBA, EEOC 3. White House Coordinator for Disabilities Issues: We need to obtain the position and select the person. Klein, Miller, Campbell (?) 4. Other Appointments Expedite vetting for Access Board, Council on Disability, and Council on Mental Retardation. Miller, Krislov 5. White House Accessbility Issues. Work with GSA and/or persons in complex to identify areas of concern, and remedy. Cerf, Campbell OFFICE OF THE VICE PRESIDENT WASHINGTON TO: Jol FROM: Michela Alioto Deputy Assistant for Domestic Policy Alil Per our conversation & have attached a short memo 2 on a couple of ideas I have for ADA events youn July 26. for a little over a week(All on unfortunately. because am be leaving some lose ends & wednot able June 26) have been trying to the to up put together a detailed outline on the OTRB issue at DOT l gave what has a transpired mg The project, rough sutch of however, is being spear spearhaded by Stephen Kaplan general over - Frank Kruesi, Asst. Sec. for Handportation Policy at DOT you can leave me a message met If you need me for anything (202)3332020. I'd like to be a part of these ideas or not- so this if you decide to run let w/ me know. Thanks Michela CLINTON LIBRARY PHOTOCOPY THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON July 5, 1994 MEMORANDUM FOR MARVIN KRISLOV From: Joe Velasquez Subject: ADA Event I asked Michela Alioto to put together her thoughts on a possible ADA event a few weeks ago. We should take her thoughts into account as we make final plans for the event on the 26th. Please advise. Thanks. June 13, 1994 MEMORANDUM FOR JOE VALESQUEZ M FROM: MICHELA ALIOTO RE: POSSIBLE ADA EVENTS ON JULY 26 ISSUE The issue at hand is a home-run ADA event to solidify the Administration's support for the ADA while publicly reemphasizing its importance to the Administration. I think I may have such an event. BACKGROUND When the ADA was enacted it gave one very significant provision -- it excluded over-the- road-buses (OTRB's), basically Greyhound buses, from complying with the ADA until 1996. By that time, DOT was to come up with a decision on how OTRB's would satisfy the ADA. In the meanwhile, OTA was commissioned to look into the matter and supply DOT with an assessment of the cost as well as a recommendation for implantation. In their report, OTA supported making all new OTRB's accessible. The OTA report was subsequently sent to DOT and later disseminated among the Assistant Secretaries for full consideration and comment. Those comments were than sent to the Secretary for a decision. Word has it that Secretary Pena agrees with OTA's recommendations and will approve them with one exception. DOT would like to see the subsidies marked in the National Highway Systems Bill go through -- they just passed in the House. If they go through, Pena is expected to back OTA's recommendations ADA EVENT WITH THE PRESIDENT As you know, transportation is an intrinsic part of Title II of the ADA. Its importance rests in the fact that it insures independence for people with physical disabilities. Agreeing with and supporting the disability community by requiring OTRB accessibility, while continuing to otherwise implement the ADA -- as we have begun to do here in the White House -- would solidify our relationship with this constituency while strengthening our bond of support. An announcement of this magnitude would be historic and would set a strong precedence for the Administration's support of the ADA. It would cement a much needed relationship with the disability community, and we would be supplying them with a victory Bush was unable to win. ADA EVENT WITH THE VICE PRESIDENT In addition, Vice President Gore's co-sponsorship of the ADA as a Senator makes him an important asset of this day's events. Considering his work on the NII and the NII's importance to people with disabilities, I thought he should do a separate telecommunications event after the President's. The theme; "A White House Accessible To All People" would give the Vice President the forum to show off the accessible forms of telecommunications products that will be available to insure compliance with Title IV of the ADA; while, once again, showing the Administration's support of the ADA. RECOMMENDATIONS Ensure that DOT supports OTA's recommendations. Primary Event: An announcement by the President with Secretary Pena of the Administration's support of OTRB accessibility. Secondary Event: A demonstration by the Vice President of NII accessibility.