Submitted photo Rep. Joe Sempolinski and his wife Angie are pictured with their 4-year-old daughter Jocelyn, who has Down syndrome. A local lawmaker said his daughter was the inspiration to work on and pass her 21st Century Assistive Technology Act.
Helping people with disabilities has been a priority for US Congressman Joe Sempolinski during his short tenure.
Part of that comes from being a father to a four-year-old with Down syndrome.
“She’s my hero” Sempolinski told reporters on a weekly conference call with the media.
That’s one reason Sempolinski is proud that the 21st Century Assistive Technology Act is now into law. It was signed when President Joe Biden signed the National Defense Authorization Act earlier this week.
Sempolinski, who represents Chautauqua and Cataraugas counties in the House, will join Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-California) to pass the 21st Century Assistive Technology Act to protect and advance Americans with disabilities. was a major sponsor of the Republican Party working with
The 21st Century Assistive Technology Act (HR 9028) modernizes and updates current laws authorizing state assistive technology law programs and protection and advocacy systems related to assistive technology. The bill will promote awareness of devices and services while improving access to life-changing technology for people with disabilities of all ages.
“Words cannot express how proud I am that the 21st Century Assistive Technology Act was passed.” Sempolineski said. “The fact that we were able to get this passed in such a short amount of time speaks to the tremendous effort and effort that myself and my team put into making sure this life-changing bill crossed the finish line. increase.
“I have had many wonderful experiences representing District 23 and have had the honor of voting on many important bills, but this is my proudest accomplishment.
When you see what this bill does for people with disabilities and how it impacts their lives, you know we’ve made a significant difference. “
Sempolinski said the bill’s language also promotes awareness of ASXL syndrome and other rare medical deficiencies. “It affects children in America who don’t get the attention level of Down Syndrome.”
Post-Journal/OBSERVER asked Sempolinski where his passion for disabled people comes from.Without applause, he replied that it was coming from his daughter, Jocelyn “Jojo” those with Down syndrome.
“I see what she has overcome and the attitude she has in dealing with the challenges that come with her situation.” He said.
Sempolinski said his desire to help people with disabilities was part of the reason he chose to run for public office.
“Given the deep honor that comes with being a member of the House of Representatives and the ability to make a positive impact on people’s lives, I wanted to take the lead from my hero, my daughter Jojo, and use that power to help people. in that community He said.
Sempolinski said the newly approved law will not only help people with permanent and temporary physical disabilities, but also people with developmental disabilities.
Sempolinski won a special election this summer after former US Congressman Tom Reed resigned. When Sempolinski became president, he was given his two-minute speech to address the House of Representatives.
“When I thanked my daughter and the inspiration she gave me and recognized her as my hero, the House stood up and gave her a standing ovation. It’s the best moment of my life.” ” He said.
Sempolinski’s term will end at noon on January 3, when the 117th Congress ends and the 118th begins. At that time, Nick Langworthy will inherit the 23rd Congressional District, which has new boundaries that include most of Erie County.
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