NW Atlanta News

Washington D.C. (August 2, 2024) | Today, Reps. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Marc Molinaro (NY-19), and Mike Thompson (CA-04) introduced dual resolutions calling on legislative branch entities to increase purchases of goods and services from the procurement list maintained by the AbilityOne Commission. The aim is to employ procurement practices that ensure each legislative entity meets its statutory obligations and maximizes employment opportunities for Americans with disabilities.

Established by the Javits-Wagner-O’Day Act (JWOD), the AbilityOne Commission maintains a procurement list recording products and services available for government purchase provided by Americans with disabilities, including individuals living with blindness and a growing number of returning veterans. This initiative follows letters sent by Reps. Crockett and Molinaro in December 2023, inquiring into legislative entities’ AbilityOne procurement practices, and a subsequent letter to the Committee on House Administration presenting those findings.

“As a U.S. Air Force veteran, I understand the critical importance of keeping our commitment to those who serve. Congress has the responsibility to help support employment opportunities for Americans with significant disabilities, including our nation’s heroes," said Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11). "Ensuring all federal agencies and congressional offices purchase and utilize AbilityOne products and services is a critical step in helping disabled Americans enjoy full participation in our economy and our communities."

"In 1971, Congress established the AbilityOne Program in its current form. But 53 years later, this very same body is falling behind on fulfilling the promise it made all those years ago," said Rep. Crockett (TX-30). "As members of the People's House, we have a responsibility and a duty to honor that promise and support employment opportunities for Americans with disabilities. By requiring each legislative entity to take concerted, ongoing steps to increase engagement with AbilityOne, we ensure that this vital program receives the attention it is due."

"The percentage of the disability community not working is still at nearly 80%. In order for the AbilityOne Program to reach its full potential, every legislative office must understand its resources," said Rep. Molinaro (NY-19). "I'm proud to lead the bipartisan push to support the use of AbilityOne in Congress."

“The AbilityOne Program is one of the largest sources of employment in the United States for people who are blind or have significant disabilities, including disabled veterans," said Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04). "It just makes sense to ensure Congress continues supporting AbilityOne’s vendors whenever and wherever possible."

“SourceAmerica supports these resolutions that will increase awareness and utilization of the AbilityOne Program in Congress and throughout Legislative Branch Agencies," said Richard Belden, President & CEO of SourceAmerica.

The first resolution pertains exclusively to legislative entities within the House of Representatives such as the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer; it would only need House approval to take effect. If passed by the Committee on House Administration, practices would change going into the 119th Congress. The second concurrent resolution would need approval from both Chambers as it affects legislative entities serving both.