Mobile Courant

U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville of Alabama and Eric Schmitt of Missouri have reintroduced the bipartisan Ensuring Nationwide Access to Better Life Experience (ENABLE) Act. This legislation aims to allow individuals with disabilities and their families to continue saving and investing through tax-free savings accounts while maintaining eligibility for federal programs.

Senator Tuberville, who supported the legislation in the previous Congress, emphasized its importance based on his extensive experience in education. "Every human being is created by God and has inherent dignity, including those with disabilities," he stated. He expressed gratitude for Senator Schmitt's leadership and highlighted the significance of community cooperation in empowering people with disabilities.

Senator Schmitt shared his personal connection to the cause, mentioning his son Stephen's challenges due to a rare genetic disease, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, and being non-verbal. "I was proud to lead the introduction of the ENABLE Act in the 118th Congress," he said. He noted that ABLE accounts provide essential support for individuals with disabilities and their families by facilitating future savings without compromising access to necessary federal assistance.

The ENABLE Act has garnered support from several other senators across party lines, including John Boozman (R-AR), Katie Britt (R-AL), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Fetterman (D-PA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Raphael Warnock (D-GA). In the House of Representatives, U.S. Representative Lloyd Smucker from Pennsylvania is leading efforts.

ABLE accounts enable individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for federal benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. The ENABLE Act seeks to make permanent certain provisions related to these accounts that are set to expire under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

Senator Tuberville serves on several Senate committees including Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging.