I got a response from my Republican Senator about CRPD
Back when I found out that he voted against it, I shot him a very short e-mail explaining how disappointed I was with him over it. Now, weeks later, I finally got a reply from his office. As usual per Republicans, it's full of bullshit and lies. I just find it interesting to see how he and his handlers tried to spin it...
"Dear *Name Expunged*,
Thank you for contacting me regarding the U.N. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
As you know, the CRPD provides a framework for countries to protect the equal rights of those with disabilities. Countries that ratify the treaty agree to pursue policies that raise awareness and ensure equality in a number of areas - from providing equal education opportunities to criminalizing the exploitation and abuse of those with disabilities. As with all treaties, ratification of the CRPD would require a two-thirds vote in the Senate. On December 4, 2012, the Senate voted 61-38 not to ratify the CRPD. I voted no on ratification.
I am a strong champion of the rights of disabled individuals in America and am proud that our country has some of the highest standards in the world in the form of the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). I believe that ADA standards exceed the requirements of the CRPD.
However I have concerns that the timing of the debate compromised the Senate's ability to give full consideration to the CRPD and all of its potential consequences. Important legislation such as the ratification of treaties should not be rushed through during a lame-duck congress, when a packed legislative calendar and upcoming changes in Senate membership may impact the debate. This was also my position two years ago when the Senate was considering the New START treaty. The authors of the Constitution clearly intended that treaties should undergo the highest level of scrutiny by Congress, and I believe the newly elected members should have time to review these agreements after they are sworn in. Should the UN CRPD come up again in the next Congress, I will be sure to keep your thoughts in mind.
Again, thank you for contacting me. I look forward to continuing our conversation on Facebook (www.facebook.com/SenatorBlunt) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/RoyBlunt) about the important issues facing Missouri and the country. I also encourage you to visit my website (blunt.senate.gov) to learn more about where I stand on the issues and sign-up for my e-newsletter.
Sincere regards,
Roy Blunt
United States Senator"