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Senate Fails to Ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)

The treaty suffered a largely partisan defeat with 61-38 vote

December 4, 2012 | AAPD Press Team

Washington, DC- AAPD regrets to announce that the Senate failed to ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The measure was defeated largely along partisan lines with only 8 Republicans supporting the measure, while 53 Democrats voted for passage.

“Today's defeat of the CRPD squanders the opportunity to export the very best the United States has to offer," said AAPD President and CEO Mark Perriello. "AAPD will continue to engage the grassroots and educate members of Congress, to ensure that the treaty passes."

By delaying passage of the treaty, the Republicans in the Senate sent a message to the world that equality for people with disabilities is not a priority. Passage of this treaty would have allowed the United States to show leadership on disability policy, by helping other nations work toward equal opportunity, freedom, and dignity for people with disabilities.

This treaty was negotiated in 2006, by then President George W. Bush and signed in 2009 by President Barack Obama. The CRPD enjoyed strong bipartisan support until the final weeks leading up to the vote, when right wing activists prioritized fear of the United Nations over basic human dignity. The treaty was passed with a bipartisan vote from committee to the Senate floor on Tuesday November 27, 2012, but failed to reach a two-thirds vote this afternoon; falling 5 votes short of the required 66.

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The American Association of People with Disabilities is the nation's largest disability rights organization. We promote equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities. Our members, including people with disabilities and our family, friends, and supporters, represent a powerful force for change. To learn more, visit the AAPD Web site: www.aapd.com.