[nfbcs] U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky Introduces Technology Bill of Rights for the Blind

[Freeh, Jessica]

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:cdanielsen at nfb.org>cdanielsen at nfb.org



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.”







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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.