[blindlaw] Exciting News

[Scott C. Labarre]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 


The National Federation of the Blind Applauds the Introduction of
Legislation Implementing the Marrakesh Treaty


Treaty will Expand Availability of Accessible Books for Blind and Print
Disabled Americans

 

Washington, DC (March 15, 2018): Senator Charles E. "Chuck" Grassley (R-IA)
and Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Bob Corker (R-TN), and Bob Menendez
(D-NJ) have introduced the Marrakesh Treaty Implementation Act, S. 2559.

 

"The National Federation of the Blind was a principal leader in the
development and negotiation of the Marrakesh Treaty," said Mark A.
Riccobono, President of the National Federation of the Blind. "By allowing
the worldwide production and exchange of accessible books, the treaty will
dramatically increase the availability of knowledge to blind people
everywhere. We urge both houses of Congress to swiftly pass this
legislation, and in doing so, unlock the doors to expanded literacy for
millions of blind Americans."

 

The legislation will make modifications to United States copyright law to
ensure that it fully complies with the terms of the treaty. These
modifications are supported by publishing, library, and disability
organizations.

 

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About the National Federation of the Blind 

The National Federation of the Blind (NFB), headquartered in Baltimore, is
the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded
in 1940, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in the
fifty states, Washington DC, and Puerto Rico. The NFB defends the rights of
blind people of all ages and provides information and support to families
with blind children, older Americans who are losing vision, and more. We
believe in the hopes and dreams of blind people and work together to
transform them into reality. Learn more about our many programs and
initiatives at  <http://www.nfb.org> www.nfb.org. 

 

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