Political Quotes

“I rise in support of H.R. 2339, the Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act Amendments of 1994. This legislation was enacted in 1988, as a Republican initiative, to improve occupational and educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities through assistive technology devices and services. The intent of the original act was to provide Federal seed money to States to assist them in developing and implementing statewide programs that increase access to, and availability of, assistive technology devices and services. H.R. 2339 is a compromise between the House and the Senate but reflects many of the policies addressed by the original House bill. During the reauthorization process, it came to our attention that States still need time to change their current systems in order to make assistive technology accessible and available to individuals with disabilities. H.R. 2339 authorizes a second 5 year extension grant to States who have demonstrated significant progress in developing and implementing these statewide programs. However, once a State has participated in this program for a total of 10 years, Federal assistance under this program will terminate. I support this sunset provision, and believe it sends a message to States to remove barriers to assistive technology throughout the State.”