WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06) released the following statement after co-sponsoring H.R. 1407, the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act of 2019. This legislation provides timely access to Disability Insurance benefits for individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). 

“I am pleased to join this bipartisan legislation to support patients and eliminate the unnecessary waiting period to receive benefits for those diagnosed with ALS,” said Schweikert. “Patients, families, and caregivers in the ALS community are fighters, these patient deserve compassion from the moment they are diagnosed with this rare condition. This legislation will serve as quality relief for ALS patients as scientists work towards developing a cure for this disease.”

Background:

This bill eliminates the five-month waiting period for Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance benefits for individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurodegenerative disease, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Under current law, individuals must wait five months after diagnosed as disabled before their disability insurance benefit payments may begin.

To read the full text of the legislation, click HERE.

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