SC New York News

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro's efforts to support employees and entrepreneurs with disabilities have taken a significant step forward as two bipartisan bills he introduced have advanced to the House Floor.

The first bill, the Think DIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act, aims to assist small businesses in addressing accessibility issues for employees with disabilities and promote the hiring of individuals in the disability community. Rep. Molinaro, alongside U.S. Rep. Chris Pappas, introduced this legislation, which builds upon his successful 'Think DIFFERENTLY' initiative. Regarding the bill's advancement, Rep. Molinaro stated, "Individuals, of every ability, should have a fair shot at pursuing their passion...to help overcome the challenges those with disabilities face when working for a small business or starting their own."

In addition to this, the House Committee on Small Business also pushed forward the Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Reporting Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Molinaro and U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey. This bill mandates the submission of a report to Congress by the Small Business Administration to assess the needs and challenges faced by entrepreneurs with disabilities and recommend appropriate legislative actions.

Chairman Roger Williams of the House Committee on Small Business expressed gratitude towards Rep. Molinaro for his work on the Think DIFFERENTLY Act, emphasizing the importance of ensuring individuals with disabilities have opportunities in the business world. Williams highlighted the rewarding nature of entrepreneurship and the necessity for equal access to business support regardless of personal circumstances.

Rep. Pappas also commended the bipartisan collaboration on the legislation, stressing the significance of providing individuals with disabilities equal access to resources and opportunities for small business ownership and employment. He stated, “Entrepreneurship is a major pathway for all Americans to achieve self-sufficiency...to help people with disabilities pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities."