Hi! I’m Robert. I am a disabled adult, use a wheelchair and can’t drive. Despite all this, I have a master’s degree in political science. I graduated from high school just after the 9/11 attacks. I knew I couldn’t physically join the military so I determined to learn more about government so that I could answer President Kennedy’s question “What can I) do for (my) country?” In the era of the late 90’s and early 2000s, the mantra seemed to be “get all the higher education you can, because the more education you have, the more money you’ll make.” My college journey took me 11 years… In that time, the pendulum seems to have shifted from “get education” to “get experience.” I’ve spent nearly 12 years looking for full-time employment, but my applications have been rejected, mostly due to lack of experience…How are people like me supposed to get experience if we can’t get hired?? The old phrase from the Bush (43) era “soft bigotry of low expectations” once applied to education now applies to employment and it’s time for reform to give every American an opportunity for full time jobs regardless of physical condition!
Updating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for the 21st century requires a multifaceted approach that addresses economic security, job opportunities, and affordable, accessible housing—all while maintaining fiscal responsibility. One vital area of reform is raising the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) asset limits. The Brookings Institution has recommended increasing asset limitations from $2,000 to $10,000 for individuals and from $3,00 to 20,000 for couples.[1]Such increases would allow disabled people to invest in education, technology, and other tools that promote independence; allowing them to build savings and access a broader range of resources without risking the loss of essential benefits. ABLE accounts, structured like 529 college savings accounts are also helpful.[2]
In addition to economic support, modernizing the ADA must include a strong focus on job creation. A modern economy is increasingly dependent on technology and remote work, and policies should leverage these trends to create more inclusive employment opportunities. Government programs and incentives could be restructured to encourage businesses to adopt hiring practices that actively recruit and support individuals with disabilities. This includes subsidizing assistive technology and workplace accommodations, as well as offering tax credits to employers who create positions specifically designed for individuals with disabilities. By investing in these initiatives, the updated ADA would not only empower individuals economically but also contribute to a more innovative workforce.
To implement these reforms without raising taxes, funding could be sourced through reallocation of existing budgets, improved efficiency in government spending, and partnerships with private entities. Encouraging innovation in both the public and private sectors will be key to creating sustainable models that support individuals with disabilities. These reforms are needed to create a more inclusive society where economic independence, job security, and accessible living spaces are within reach for everyone! #DisabledMAGA
