These are exciting times we live in. Technology has transformed many into big kids in a candy store. But what if you weren’t even allowed in the store? For many people with disabilities, cutting-edge computer and video technology is not all that friendly.
- People with disabilities still have limited access to computer and video technology.
- A new bill in Congress and the National Broadband Plan aim to change this.
- Accessible computer and video technology will play be an increasing role in our freedom and independence.
- It’ll take a push from all of us to spark change.
More
The House Energy & Commerce Committee held a hearing on these issues on June 8thAmazing gadgets have revolutionized our society; from Ipads, e-readers, pocket-sized camcorders, and paper-thin laptops that make it easier to do just about anything to cell phones and mobile devices that act as our high-tech Swiss Army knives connecting us to news, information, and family and friends in the blink of an eye.
But when it comes to the Electronic Revolution and all these great new tech toys, the disability community is usually left in the dark. A new bill in Congress and the National Broadband Plan, however, aim to make both the Internet and video more accessible to people with disabilities.
On the frontlines of this fight is Congressman Ed Markey (D-MA) who is on a mission to ensure both broadband (high speed) Internet service and equipment is more accessible to people with disabilities, along with video devices. Markey’s 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (HR 3101) will require equipment –– including hardware and software –– as well as Internet services to be accessible unless it would be an “undue burden. The bill also authorizes regulations for closed captioning and video descriptions.
Markey’s bill aims to enact recommendations of the National Broadband Plan issued by the Federal Communications Commission earlier this year. See http://www.broadband.gov/. The plan states that “The FCC should ensure services and equipment are accessible to people with disabilities.” It calls on the federal government to be “a model for accessibility” and says that it must “promote innovative and affordable solutions to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to communications services and that they do not bear disproportionate costs to obtain that access.” The plan also calls on the Department of Justice to amend regulations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to make commercial Websites accessible.
Because many people with disabilities cannot afford to buy sophisticated accessible electronic equipment, the bill also expands the ability of people with disabilities to obtain federal subsidies for advanced communications services and specialized equipment.
We support Markey’s initiatives to bring attention to a problem that will only become greater as technology expands. It’ll take a push from all of us to really spark change. Sure, accessibility of our built environment is one facet to our freedom. But don’t be fooled: accessibility to computers, Internet and video, and other electronic devices has already started to become a major factor to our freedom and independence. We will not be left out in the cold!
If you have had trouble with access to internet services – and the equipment necessary to use it – or with access to video, please tell us about it by commenting below. Your stories can make a big difference in Washington.
Peggy Hathaway
VP - Public Policy
United Spinal Association/National Spinal Cord Injury Association
