Sessions Statement On The Passing Of Senator Ted Kennedy

Press Release

Sessions Statement On The Passing Of Senator Ted Kennedy

Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-32) today released the following statement regarding the passing of Senator Edward M. Kennedy:

“Today, America mourns the loss of Senator Ted Kennedy - the ‘Lion of the Senate.' The eight-term Senator from Massachusetts was among the most respected in Congress by both Democrats and Republicans. A fierce advocate of the liberal cause, Senator Kennedy will be remembered most for his ability to reach across party lines and work to get things done. I am deeply saddened by his passing and most appreciative of his work on behalf of people with special needs.

“Senator Kennedy and I worked together closely to pass the Dylan Lee James Family Opportunity Act – which ensured that the needs of children with disabilities were met under Medicaid. The Dylan Lee James Family Opportunity Act fixed the ‘Catch-22' in Medicaid that forced many families to make the difficult choice between accepting a pay increase that would disqualify them from Medicaid assistance or foregoing the pay increase to maintain the assistance. Without Senator Kennedy's leadership in the Senate, this bill would not have become law.

“As the father of a young man with Down syndrome, I am grateful for Senator Kennedy's contributions to the community of persons with disabilities and for the legacy he leaves on this issue. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Kennedy family as they celebrate his life accomplishments and mourn his great loss.”

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