WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) and 11 of his Senate colleagues introduced the International Children with Disabilities Protection Act, new legislation to bolster U.S. support for children with disabilities, helping improve the capacity of local disabilities rights organizations and families of children with disabilities around the world to advocate for necessary reforms. 

The bipartisan effort specifically authorizes $10 million each year for five years for the creation and establishment of an ‘‘International Children with Disabilities Protection Program,” a grant program within the State Department to empower organizations of persons with disabilities. In addition to creating the first U.S. program focused on helping global efforts to combat stigma and discrimination against children with disabilities, the legislation reinforces U.S. policy to protect against the unnecessary institutionalization of children with disabilities and to help promote the development of laws and policies that support the full inclusion of children with disabilities in families.

“Children with disabilities deserve special services specific to their needs,” said Senator Tillis. “This bipartisan legislation authorizes necessary funds for these programs and requires transparency around these expenditures, and is a step in the right direction for our children around the world.” 

Click HERE for a copy of the legislation.

Click HERE for a one-page summary of the bill.

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