Republican opposition downs UN disability treaty

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican opposition has led to Senate rejection of a United Nations treaty on the rights of the disabled that is modeled after the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act.

The majority of Republicans were not swayed by support for the treaty from party stalwarts, including former Majority Leader Bob Dole, who was disabled during World War II, and Sen. John McCain, who suffered disabling injuries in Vietnam.

The treaty urges nations to strive to ensure that the disabled enjoy the same rights as their fellow citizens. Republicans objected to taking up a treaty during the lame-duck session and warned that the treaty could pose a threat to U.S. sovereignty.

Supporters said the treaty would ensure that the United States remains the world leader in promoting rights for the disabled.

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