WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement following the passage of the resolution of ratification for the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled:
“I am very pleased that the Senate has consented to this critically important Treaty, which will break down barriers that have prevented those with disabilities from accessing and learning from books and published materials, and make a concrete positive difference in their lives.
“For over three years, I have worked with Senator Corker, as well as the leadership of the Judiciary Committee, in a bipartisan fashion, to advance this Treaty and its implementing legislation. This is a subject of great importance to me, because I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to fully achieve their dreams and fulfill their God-given potential.
“At a moment when our country’s international alliances are under unprecedented strain, it is vital for the Senate to continue to exercise its constitutional role in considering treaties, which enhance and increase stability in an uncertain world, and can deliver tangible benefits to the United States and its citizens and businesses.”
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