Transmitted via electronic email
Douglas B. Moylan
Attorney General of Guam
Office of the Attorney General of Guam
590 S. Marine Corps. Drive
ITC Bldg., Ste. 802
Tamuning, Guam 96913
RE: Request for Enforcement of ADA Compliance
Håfa adai Attorney General Moylan,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the crucial need for robust enforcement of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) throughout our island and request your office to champion this enforcement. With your leadership, I believe we can preserve and safeguard the dignity of individuals with disabilities with consistent and stringent ADA compliance.
The testimonies heard in the public hearing on Tuesday morning highlighted the need for more vigilant implementation of ADA regulations to adequately care for the needs of our island’s vulnerable residents. This should not be the case and we need to address this as soon as possible.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was enacted in 1990 and represents a landmark achievement in promoting equal opportunities, accessibility, and inclusivity for people with disabilities. This legislation has played a pivotal role in dismantling barriers and fostering an environment that allows individuals with disabilities to participate in all aspects of society. However, despite the progress made, there remain instances where ADA compliance is not rigorously upheld, and consequently the progress made for our people with disabilities is jeopardized by removing access, opportunities, and inclusion.
I think it would be beneficial to collaborate with the Department of Integrated Services for Individuals with Disabilities (DISID) to conduct thorough assessments and correct the current situation. I believe it is essential for the Office of the Attorney General to continue its leadership role in ensuring the enforcement of ADA regulations. Strict compliance not only guarantees the protection of the rights of individuals with disabilities, it also contributes to the creation of an inclusive society that benefits everyone. By steadfastly enforcing ADA compliance, we not only uphold the principles of justice but also contribute to the creation of an inclusive island community that embraces the diversity of its citizens.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I hope you will act on my request and work with DISID to support our people with disabilities. I standby ready to assist in this matter.
Si Yu’os ma’åse,
Jesse A. Lujan
Senator, 37th Guam Legislature