Hoeven: Senate Approves Als Disability Insurance Access Act

Press Release

Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate approved bipartisan legislation he is cosponsoring to eliminate the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) five month waiting period for individuals diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), more commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

"ALS is a progressive condition for which there is currently no cure," said Hoeven. "This bipartisan legislation will help to provide individuals diagnosed with ALS with disability benefits in a timely manner."

Prior to becoming eligible for SSDI, most applicants are required to wait for five months. However, because ALS is not a temporary or reversible condition, and because of its degenerative nature, the disease may progress significantly while patients wait for SSDI benefits. By removing the five month waiting period, individuals diagnosed with ALS will be able to receive SSDI benefits earlier, with the hope of providing more timely care and improving their quality of life.

The legislation will now go to the House of Representatives for consideration.

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