WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Thursday evening unanimously passed legislation to improve access to the Internet and other technologies for blind and deaf individuals. The Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act was sponsored by Senators Mark Pryor (D-AR), John Kerry (D-MA), John Ensign (R-NV) and Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX).
“The Internet and other emerging communication equipment are no longer a luxury. They are an essential gateway to learn, interact and conduct business,” Pryor said. “This legislation will ensure all Americans, including those with disabilities, are able to fully participate in today’s online world. I am pleased that the Senate came together with one voice to pass this important legislation.”
“In the digital age, an inclusive America demands that no person with a disability is left behind either online or offline,” said Kerry. “The goal of our bill is crystal clear. We must ensure that Americans with disabilities have every opportunity to access our shared communications infrastructure. Anything less than our best effort dishonors the Americans with Disabilities Act and all that’s been accomplished over the twenty years since its passage.”
“For many Americans, the Internet is an indispensible part of their jobs and their lives,” said Hutchison. “The Internet allows us to access information instantly, upload photos and videos, and buy and sell products from around the world. This crucial legislation will help ensure that all Americans have access to devices, Internet content, and other communications services.”
“This bill will ensure that millions of Americans with disabilities can enjoy 21st century Internet and video technologies,” said Ensign. “I have worked hard with my colleagues to provide the industry with the flexibility that they need to meet the disability community’s needs. Our bipartisan landmark disability legislation has moved one step closer to becoming law and I urge the House to send it to the President as soon as possible.”
The Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act will improve overall access to audio and visual materials on the Internet for the deaf and blind. Specifically, the legislation will:
• Create a one-stop shop for information on online products and services available to blind and deaf individuals;
• Close existing gaps in accessibility by requiring technology like smart devices, including an iPhone or Blackberry, to be hearing aid compatible;
• Require that programming shown on television also be closed captioned and video described when it is posted on the Internet. ex., nightly news, Razorback games, Lost;
• Require video programming devices, such mp3 players and DVRs, to be capable of closed captioning, video description and emergency alerts; and
• Authorize federal support for specialized equipment for deaf or blind individuals.
