FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Chris Danielsen
Director of Public Relations
National Federation of the Blind
(410) 659-9314, extension 2330
(410) 262-1281 (Cell)
<mailto:[log in to unmask]>[log in to unmask]
Trevor Kincaid
Communications Director
Office of Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky
(202) 225-2111
U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky Introduces
Technology Bill of Rights for the Blind
National Federation of the Blind Applauds Measure
To Ensure Blind People Equal Access to Technology
Washington, DC (January 27, 2010): Representative
Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today introduced the
Technology Bill of Rights for the Blind (H.R.
4533), which will mandate that all consumer
electronics, home appliances, kiosks, and
electronic office technology provide user
interfaces that are accessible to the blind.
Dr. Marc Maurer, President of the National
Federation of the Blind, said: "The National
Federation of the Blind appreciates the wise and
decisive action taken today by Representative
Schakowsky. In recent years, advances in
microchip and digital technology have led to the
proliferation of everyday products--such as
dishwashers or copy machines--that have visual
displays and other user interfaces that are
inaccessible to individuals who are blind or have
low vision. Inaccessibility of these devices is
a major barrier to a blind person's independence
and productivity. The Technology Bill of Rights
will ensure that manufacturers make their
products accessible to all consumers, and that
blind people will not be left behind as technology continues to advance."
"The importance of access to technology in
today's society cannot be overstated. In many
cases, a person's livelihood depends upon the
ability to use technology," said Representative
Schakowsky. "This bill will allow people who are
blind or have low vision to compete on a level
playing field with their sighted peers and remain
productive members of society."
###
About the National Federation of the Blind
With more than 50,000 members, the National
Federation of the Blind is the largest and most
influential membership organization of blind
people in the United States. The NFB improves
blind people's lives through advocacy, education,
research, technology, and programs encouraging
independence and self-confidence. It is the
leading force in the blindness field today and
the voice of the nation's blind. In January 2004
the NFB opened the National Federation of the
Blind Jernigan Institute, the first research and
training center in the United States for the blind led by the blind.
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