THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON

April 4, 2002

Ms. Rosemarie Botthof
Apartment 106
460 Eagle Drive
Elk Grove Village, Illinois 60007-4731

Dear Ms. Botthof:

Thank you for your letter about Americans with disabilities. I share your concern.

As President I am fighting for initiatives to help tear down the barriers to equality that face many of the millions of Americans with disabilities. The unemployment rate for Americans with disabilities is alarmingly high. Home ownership rates for Americans with disabilities are in the single digits. Internet access for Americans with disabilities is half that of people without disabilities.

It doesn't have to be this way.

One of my first acts as President was to propose the New Freedom Initiative to help Americans with disabilities have greater access to their communities. My initiative increases access to assistive technologies for Americans with disabilities. It expands educational opportunities for Americans with disabilities. It helps integrate Americans with disabilities into the work force. And it promotes community access.

I believe there should be no limits on what can be achieved in America. All citizens should have the opportunity to learn, live independently, and pursue their dreams. That's why I have proposed new initiatives and support such important laws as the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Thank you for writing me on this important issue. I appreciate the opportunity to hear from you about your concerns.