Advocates urge swift Senate vote on disability aid

WASHINGTON (AP) — Supporters of legislation that would allow Americans with disabilities to open tax-free savings accounts to pay for long-term expenses are urging a swift vote in the Senate after the House overwhelmingly passed the bill.

The Republican-led House voted 404-17 Wednesday to approve the most sweeping legislation to help the disabled since 1990. It paves the way for creation of the savings accounts next year.

With more than 85 percent of Congress listed as co-sponsors, the measure was expected to get final approval easily in the Senate.

Modeled after tax-free college savings accounts, the bill would amend the federal tax code to allow states to establish the program. Families would be able to set up tax-free accounts pay for long-term needs such as education, transportation and health care.

Advocates urge swift Senate vote on disability aid