STATEHOUSE – State Representative Suzanne Crouch (R-Evansville) testified in the Senate Homeland Security, Transportation and Veterans Affairs committee recognizing Ben Trockman, a young Evansville man paralyzed by a spinal cord injury. Indiana Senate rules do not allow that chamber to pass resolutions that make recommendations to Congress without first passing the resolution through a Senate committee. The resolution recognizing Trockman passed unanimously through the Senate Homeland Security, Transportation and Veterans Affairs committee. The House, not subject to that rule, recognized Ben last week for his advocacy of helping disabled individuals gain independence. The House is submitting, and now the Senate, to the federal government the need to change federal airline regulations to better accommodate wheelchair-bound passengers. “I urge the members of our Indiana congressional delegation to prioritize the issue of airline wheelchair accommodations,” said Rep. Crouch. “Unless priority is given, we might fail to help a population in need.” At age 17, Ben Trockman suffered a C-3 spinal cord injury from a motocross accident. Now a National Adult Representative for the Easter Seals, Ben travels nationwide promoting independence for disabled individuals. Yet, Trockman’s travels are not always easy. Airlines presently accommodate wheelchair-bound passengers by transferring them from their current wheelchair to another wheelchair provided by the airline. However, if the proper precautions are not taken, those passengers could develop pressure sores. “It is of the utmost importance that people with spinal cord injuries alter the position of their body constantly to prevent the development of pressure sores,” said Rep. Crouch. “The wheelchairs currently provided by the airlines can cause problems because they do not necessarily serve the needs of those who require their use.” -30- Rep. Crouch (R-Evansville) represents portions of Vanderburgh and Warrick counties |
