Projo Politics Blog

WASHINGTON – The speaker's rostrum in the House of Representatives will be equipped with wheelchair lifts, Democratic and Republican leaders have announced, winning praise from Rhode Island Rep. James R. Langevin, who declared, "I have long said that I may be the first quadriplegic in Congress, but I certainly won't be the last and I know this change will benefit many in the future.''

Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California, Democratic Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland and Republican Leader John Boehner of Ohio jointly announced the plan to coincide with upcoming House action on the Americans with Disabilities Act. "Our commitment to a disability-free workplace sends an invaluable message to all Americans that the House will lead by example," Pelosi said.

"Since Congress requires businesses across the country to accommodate the needs of individuals with disabilities, it is fitting that we should follow the rules we set for others,” said Boehner, the minority leader.

Early in Langevin's House service, a special station – equipped with an easy-to-reach electronic voting device – was created for him on the House floor, near an entrance to the speaker's lobby behind the great rostrum from which the president delivers his annual State of the Union speech.

– John E. Mulligan, Journal Washington Bureau

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