Dignity for People with Disabilities in the Foreign Service Act

Dignity for People with Disabilities in the Foreign Service Act

This bill replaces several references to handicapping condition with disability in the Foreign Service Act of 1980.

For example, an existing provision requiring the Department of State to prescribe regulations to ensure that Foreign Service members and applicants are free from discrimination on the basis of a handicapping condition is amended to require regulations to ensure that Foreign Service members and individuals are free from discrimination on the basis of a disability.

Bill 117 HR 8011, also known as the Dignity for People with Disabilities in the Foreign Service Act, aims to promote the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities within the United States Foreign Service. The bill seeks to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to employment opportunities within the Foreign Service, as well as access to necessary accommodations and support services.

The bill requires the Secretary of State to develop and implement policies and procedures to support individuals with disabilities in the Foreign Service, including providing reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities and ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities for career advancement. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary of State to establish a Disability Advisory Committee to provide guidance and recommendations on disability-related issues within the Foreign Service.

Overall, the Dignity for People with Disabilities in the Foreign Service Act aims to promote inclusivity and equality for individuals with disabilities within the Foreign Service, ensuring that they have the support and resources necessary to succeed in their careers.