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December 14, 20 II
Via Facsimile
The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo
Governor, State of New York
Executive Chamber
The Capitol
Albany, New York 12224
Dear Governor Cuomo:
As you know, I was the chief Senate sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act of
1990, and 1 am currently Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions
Committee, which has jurisdiction over that statute. In order to comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act (42 U.S.c. 12101 et. seq.), and as the U.S. Department of Justice has asserted,
every new cab in New York City, whether hailed or called, must be accessible to individuals who
use whee lchairs.
I have read articles suggesting that providing accessibility for individuals who usc
wheelchairs is a " hardship" or that the state legi slature should reduce the proposed number of
accessible cabs. Not only would that violate the law, it is bad policy. New York should lead the
nation on accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
I understand that you have a number of concerns to balance and as a fonner federal
official that you are full y aware of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I trust you will make the
best decision for all involved.
Tom Harkin
United States Senator