*This is an archive page. The links are no longer being updated.
1993.07.23 :  Anniversary of Americans with Disabilities Act

Contact:  Danielle Rose (202) 401-4541
July 23, 1993

   Fernando M. Torres-Gil, assistant secretary for aging, hailed the
anniversary of the enactment of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) on
July 26.  "This historic milestone is a time for all Americans to reflect on
the progress we have made in improving the quality of life for older persons
and people with disabilities," Torres-Gil said.
   "For seniors with disabilities, the ADA provides a valuable tool in their
struggle to access basic human services and maintain their independence.  The
inability to access these critical services undermines that quality of life,"
said Torres-Gil.  "The enactment of the ADA three years ago reaffirmed our
nation's commitment to the needs of the elderly and the disabled.  It is our
duty to ensure that this commitment continues."
   The ADA provides for broad nondiscrimination protection for individuals
with disabilities in employment, public services, public accommodations and
services provided by private entities, transportation and communications.
   In noting the support that this landmark legislation provides to people of
all ages with disabilities, Torres-Gil said, "It is clear that we must
continue to work together, to build on the successes of the past, so that the
mutual needs of the future disabled and elderly will be met, especially in
areas such as health care, social services, housing and transportation."
     Dr. Fernando Torres-Gil was sworn in as the first assistant secretary for
aging in the Department of Health and Human Services in May *This is an archive page. The links are no longer being updated.
1993.  As
assistant secretary, Dr. Torres-Gil is working with HHS Secretary Donna E.
Shalala in overseeing aging policy within the department as well as throughout
the federal government and overseeing the Administration on Aging.
   The Administration on Aging is the lead advocate agency for older persons
and their concerns at the federal level.  It works closely with its nationwide
network of regional offices and state and area agencies on aging to meet the
needs of the elderly.