WASHINGTON, May 15, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- Paralyzed Veterans of America released
the following statement from PVA Chief Policy Officer Heather Ansley in response to today's final
passage of the Federal Aviation Administration Reauthorization Act
of 2024.
"Paralyzed Veterans of America applauds the passage of the FAA
reauthorization bill and its inclusion of provisions focused on
improving the travel experience for people with disabilities,
particularly wheelchair users. Today is a significant step forward
in our efforts to improve the safety and dignity of the air travel
experience for the disability community, especially our members –
U.S. military veterans with catastrophic injuries or illnesses,
such as MS and ALS, who fought for and earned the right to fly.
This legislation not only prioritizes their well-being, but also
acknowledges their unique air travel-related needs and empowers
them with access to information about the travel process."
Ansley continued, "We commend the leadership of the House
Transportation and Infrastructure and Senate Commerce, Science and
Transportation committees and their Aviation subcommittees, as well
as Senator Tammy Baldwin and
Representative Dina Titus, who
worked closely with PVA and other key stakeholders, to enhance
aircraft and airport accessibility. From increasing training
requirements of airline personnel and their contractors who assist
wheelchairs users and stow their assistive devices to improving the
Department of Transportation's complaint process and continuing to
study the ability to fly in a wheelchair, this bill includes vital
disability provisions and will lead to truly life-changing advances
for those with mobility disabilities. We hope this bipartisan
support will continue as both PVA and Congress work to ensure that
the Air Carrier Access Act fully protects the civil rights of all
passengers with disabilities."
Visit PVA.org/AirTravel for more information and to
access vital resources if you or someone you know has a disability
and is about to travel.
About Paralyzed Veterans of America
Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the
only congressionally chartered veterans service organization
dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans
with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures
veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation;
monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds
research and education in the search for a cure and improved care
for individuals with paralysis.
As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people
with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services,
works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and
provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and
recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed
Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their
caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto
Rico. Learn more at PVA.org.
Contact:
Kristina
Packard
KristinaP@pva.org
(703) 282-8121 cell
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SOURCE Paralyzed Veterans of America