See What Happens When You're A Powerful Voting Block?

Well, today in Illinois, we saw yet another example of the power you have
when you get out and vote and when the politicians know you will. When will
the Disabled community learn!

During the Fall veto session of the Illinois legislature, there was a bill,
HB4654, which if passed would have eliminated the current program across the
state where Seniors regardless of income get to ride mass transit systems
for free. This program would have been changed to only make free rides on
transit available to Seniors making less than about $22,000 per year. I
personally supported this bill, because I believe the current program of
making these free rides available to all Seniors is unsustainable,
especially in today's economy.

This bill was never called for a vote, despite the fact the Illinois House
Executive Committee passed it unanimously. Among the reasons given for not
voting on this bill was that politicians were worried about upsetting
Seniors just a bit over three months before the February 2, 2010 primary
elections.

And just why were they so worried? Because Seniors get out and vote and
they know it. Sure, their inaction will mean that those of us who are not
Seniors, and who actually pay our way on transit will likely see higher
fares, and reduced service. But, they put that ahead of upsetting this
powerful voting block.

People with disabilities, I've said it before and I'll say it again. If we
don't get off our fat, lazy asses, register and get out and vote,
politicians won't pay as much attention to our needs as they will to others
like Seniors. We represent 20% of the American population. Imagine what a
strong voting block we could be if we only got out and voted in the numbers
we should.

Let today's events or lack thereof reinforce the lesson of how important it
is to get out and vote as if our lives and programs depend on it, because
they do! If you don't vote, don't bitch to me about the type of Government
and lack of attention we get.