Strengthening Disability Rights in US Foreign Policy and State Department Operations.
This Act formalizes the inclusion of disability rights into U.S. foreign policy and international aid. It establishes a permanent Ambassador-at-Large for International Disability Rights and mandates the State Department to ensure full accessibility of facilities and recruitment processes for employees with disabilities. U.S. citizens with disabilities will benefit from improved employment conditions and service opportunities within the State Department, while U.S. foreign assistance must now actively address the needs of people with disabilities globally.
Key points
Establishes a permanent Office of International Disability Rights, led by an Ambassador-at-Large, to coordinate a global strategy on disability inclusion.
Mandates the State Department to adopt a formal, public policy ensuring disability inclusion across all U.S. foreign assistance and humanitarian programs.
Requires embassies, consulates, and official residences to meet U.S. accessibility standards for employees and their families with disabilities.
Introduces mandatory disability inclusion training for all State Department personnel, including Foreign Service officers and chiefs of mission.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_5628
Sponsor: Sen. Kaine, Tim [D-VA]
Process start date: 2024-12-19