Assistive Technology Act of 2004

CONGRESSIONAL RECORD
SENATE
Oct. 4, 2004

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ACT OF 2004

Mr. DeWINE. Mr. President, I rise today in support of the Assistive Technology Act of 2004, which passed the Senate last week by unanimous consent on September 30, 2004. I thank Senator GREGG for his commitment to this very important issue and to my colleagues who have spent several months working on this bill.

The Assistive Technology Act is legislation that helps those individuals with disabilities receive the necessary equipment, devices, and services that allow them to live independently, improve their education, or assist with employment opportunities. This program is open to all ages, so it may help the smallest child receive equipment that will help him or her in the classroom or older adults who may need a device to adapt their workspace so they continue on the job.

Many States, such as Ohio, offer many different services to individuals with disabilities. Successful programs-equipment exchange programs and demonstration centers, for example-help ensure that the individual needing assistance is receiving the appropriate equipment to address the obstacle he or she is trying to overcome. Programs like these and the financial loan program help provide everyone in need with the opportunity to receive and purchase the technology and devices necessary to lead productive lives.

This legislation is very important to the millions of individuals with disabilities living in the United States. Again, I thank Senator GREGG and my colleagues on the HELP Committee for working on this issue. I look forward to working with my colleagues on other legislation that will address the needs of individuals with disabilities.

I ask unanimous consent the text of three letters from groups supporting the Assistive Technology Act be printed in the RECORD.