[gui-talk] Fwd: Press Release: Technology Bill Of RightsIntroduced For Blind U.S. Citizens

[Steve Pattison]

From: Accessible Devices parker2745 at accessible-devices.com

 U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky Introduces Technology Bill of 
Rights for the Blind
WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/
National Federation of the Blind Applauds Measure to Ensure Blind People 
Equal Access
to Technology
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.
SOURCE National Federation of the Blind

Regards Steve
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