by: Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy
This week marked a significant milestone as Congress successfully passed the bipartisan Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization, officially known as HR 3935, the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act. This legislation, now making its way to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law, represents a groundbreaking advancement in air travel accessibility, particularly for individuals living with disabilities.
Crucial provisions of the legislation include mandates for:
- Comprehensive aircraft personnel training in proper handling of motor wheelchairs during boarding and deplaning
- Ensuring improved seating arrangements for passengers with disabilities
- Reserving onboard wheelchairs to facilitate mobility
Additionally, the law enhances aircraft evacuation procedures, placing a priority on the safety of passengers with disabilities.
This achievement underscores a collective effort, with PPMD joining forces with various disability rights and rare disease organizations to advocate for these important changes.
“Improved disability inclusion is essential for a more equitable society. By collaborating with federal partners and other rare- and disability-focused organizations, our community has made significant strides in advancing legislation that promotes accessibility,” said PPMD’s Senior Director of Advocacy Lauren Stanford. “The FAA reauthorization marks a monumental step forward by ensuring that air travel is safer and more accommodating for individuals with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy. This is a victory for our community, reflecting our shared commitment to creating a more inclusive world where everyone has the opportunity to participate fully and equally.”
PPMD will continue to advocate to improve accessibility for our community by expanding access to telehealth services, continuing to enhance airline accessibility, and improving Social Security Disability Income benefits. If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved and support these efforts, contact lauren@parentprojectmd.org.
