AT Act Reauthorization Advances in National Defense Authorization Act

This week, H.R. 9028, the 21st Century Assistive Technology Act passed in the House. The bill would update the Assistive Technology Act, a federal law that established and supports state Assistive Technology Programs to provide assistive technology and technical support to people with disabilities to improve or maintain the ability to participate in educational, employment, transportation, and in all aspects of daily living. House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Bobby Scott (D-VA), who holds jurisdiction over the bill, applauded its passage, remarking “Whether it’s a high-tech device or something as simple as a magnifying glass, assistive technology is critical to helping people with disabilities live, work, and participate in their communities independently. As more Americans look to exercise their right to live at home, instead of institutions, this investment will take a key step to increase the quality of life, and expand work and educational opportunities, for people across the country.” The bill, which is included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), an annual bill to authorize defense spending, is expected to quickly advance in the Senate and be signed into law this month. 

To read the bill, go here.