(Washington, D.C.)–The President has signed into law legislation reauthorizing the Assistive Technology Act, which will provide over $26 million per year in federal funding to help states establish and maintain systems to help individuals with disabilities gain access to assistive technology.  Assistive technology devices are used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.  Rhode Island received over $300,000 in funding from this program in FY2004.

Chief among the improvements and modifications to the legislation was the elimination of a sunset, or expiration, provision - a modification Congressman Langevin has personally championed since his arrival in Congress. 

Langevin also fought for provisions that offer state programs flexibility in the use of funds for training and technical assistance.  He feels it is critical that consumers have access to demonstration centers and loan programs, as well as assessment and training services.  Such services maximize the value of assistive technologies, making it possible for individuals with disabilities to use technology to meet their full potential in their homes, communities and the job market.  Under the new law, states can use up to 40 percent of their funds for training, technical assistance, outreach and public awareness activities.

"Individuals with disabilities deserve more than a temporary fix - their needs are not simply going to go away," said Congressman Langevin, co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus. "In many cases, access to technology makes the difference between a life on public assistance and a productive, fulfilling career. By making an investment in these individuals, society will reap significant rewards."

Without elimination of the sunset clause, funding for the Assistive Technology Act ("Tech Act") would have gradually decreased in subsequent years, ultimately leading to complete elimination of the program. Congressman Langevin was instrumental in rallying the support of fellow members to ensure that the provision eliminating sunsets remained a part of the bill as it moved to the floor for consideration.

Over the years, Langevin has repeatedly urged his colleagues to join him in pressing for an end to the sunset. Pointing to changes in technology and in disability policy, he has advocated for a permanent commitment to people with disabilities. Langevin's efforts are reflected in the new law, which makes the funding stream for the state programs permanent.

The Tech Act provides grants to states to improve access to assistive technology via outreach, awareness, training, and technical assistance. Unemployment in the disability community has consistently hovered at 70%, but state assistive technology programs have proven successful in helping the disabled get back into their communities and back into work.

"As someone who relies upon assistive technology every day, I understand the difference that access and education can mean for individuals with disabilities," added Langevin. "People with disabilities yearn to become active participants in and contributors to their communities- they just need the right tools.  I am proud that our efforts yielded such helpful results for Rhode Islanders and all Americans living with some form of a disability.”

Congressman Langevin created the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus in 2001 to address issues concerning people with disabilities, including assistive technology.

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