Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- Senators discussed the first issue on the agenda of the seventh plenary session of the Senate - the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan "On the Rights of Persons with Disabilities".

Today, more than 700 thousand people with disabilities live in Uzbekistan, including more than 100 thousand children with disabilities under the age of 16.

The Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which envisages international standards and requirements of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, as well as the use of the term “person with disabilities” instead of the word “disabled”, serves to protect the rights and interests of representatives of the above category.

The adoption of the Law "On the Rights of Persons with Disabilities" will allow our compatriots to enjoy new benefits in comparison with the current legislation.

With the entry into force of the Law, the work of medical commissions will improve, the applicant will receive an opinion within 10 calendar days. Medical examinations will be free of charge. Persons with disabilities will receive preferential treatment in outpatient and inpatient conditions, as well as their needs for prosthetic and orthopedic equipment will be met.

For persons with disabilities, special corridors, ramps, special places in public transport, facilities for entering and exiting at stops will be created. They are provided with conveniences at all stages of training. Their vocational training, training in colleges and technical schools is provided at the expense of the state. For their higher education, state grants will be allocated at the rate of 2% of the total contingent.

Local khokimiyats are responsible for improving the living conditions of persons with disabilities. The right to receive assistance is ensured, including with the provision of services at home and at the place of residence in fulfilling obligations related to marriage and the creation of a family, adoption, and raising children.

The state provides material, consultative and other assistance and support to families raising children with disabilities.

This law was approved by the senators.