U.S. Government Resource Center

1. AbilityOne
   Formerly known as Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD), AbilityOne is a Federal initiative to help people who are blind or severely disabled find employment by working for nonprofit agencies (NPAs) that sell products and/or services to the U.S. Government. The Committee for Purchase From People Who Are Blind or Severely Disabled administers the AbilityOne program. It has designated National Industries for the Blind (NIB) and NISH to assist with program implementation. The core criterion for eligibility is that 75% of total direct labor hours must be performed by people who are blind or have other disabilities. In 2006, nearly 47,000 people were employed through the program, making AbilityOne the largest source of work opportunities for people who are blind or have other severe disabilities in the U.S. [More Information]
2. Access Board
   Originally named the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board, the Access Board is an independent Federal agency which ensures access for those with disabilities. Key responsibilities of the Board include - developing and maintaining accessibility requirements for the built environment, transit vehicles, telecommunications equipment, and for electronic and information technology; providing technical assistance and training on these guidelines and standards; enforcing accessibility standards for federally funded facilities. [More Information]
3. ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) for Buildings
   This document, which appears in its entirety at http://www.access-board.gov/adaag/html/adaag.htm, contains scoping and technical requirements for accessibility to buildings and facilities by individuals with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. These requirements apply to all areas of newly designed or newly constructed buildings and facilities and altered portions of existing buildings and facilities covered by titles II and III of the ADA. [More Information]
4. ADA Home Page (U.S. Department of Justice)
   The ADA Home Page contains comprehensive information pertaining to the Americans with Disabilities Act. Some sample topics include employment, agriculture, education, technology and business. A variety of ADA-related publications are also available. [More Information]
5. Administration on Developmental Disabilities
   As part of the Administration for Children and Families of the US Department of Health and Human Services, the Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is responsible for execution of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000. This Act emphasizes employment, education, childcare, health, housing, transportation, recreation and quality assurance. ADD ensures that people with developmental disabilities and their families receive the services and supports they need and participate in the planning and designing of those services. [More Information]
6. Air Travelers with Disabilities Hotline, U.S. Department of Transportation
   The toll-free hotline provides general information to consumers about the rights of air travelers with disabilities, responds to requests for printed consumer information, and assists air travelers with time-sensitive disability-related issues that need to be addressed in "real time." The line is staffed from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern time, seven days a week. Air travelers who experience disability-related air travel service problems may call the hotline to obtain assistance. Air travelers who would like DOT to investigate a complaint about a disability issue must submit their complaint in writing or via e-mail. [More Information]
7. Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center
   The ADEAR Center provides current, comprehensive Alzheimer's disease information and resources from the National Institute on Aging. The Center's information specialists provide answers to specific questions; literature database searches for further research and reading; information on clinical research trials; and referrals to local supportive services and AD Centers that specialize in research and diagnosis. The Center's free publications offer information on Alzheimer's symptoms, diagnosis, related disorders, risk factors, treatment, caregiving tips, home safety tips, and research. Spanish language resources are available. The Center also offers training materials and a newsletter for health care and caregiving professionals. [More Information]
8. Automotive Safety Issues for Persons with Disabilities, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
   NHTSA regulates the manufacture of automotive adaptive equipment and modified vehicles used by persons with disabilities. This area of the NHTSA Web site that provides information such areas as adaptation of motor vehicles, deactivation of air bags, and transportation of students with disabilities. There are also updates on new and revised Federal regulations on this topics. [More Information]
9. CDC Disability and Health Team
   The Disability and Health Team is part of the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (NCBDDD) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The goal of the Disability and Health Team is to promote the health and well-being of the estimated 54 million people with disabilities living within our country. [More Information]
10. Census Bureau Disability Statistics
    The Census Bureau Data on Disability is a compilation of information and data on disability statistics in the US. [More Information]
11. Central Office for Assistive Services and Technology, U.S. Department of Labor
    COAST serves as a one-stop-shop for disability related needs for managers, employees and applicants of the Department. COAST provides guidance, counsel and information on reasonable accommodations, related services, issues and organizations for and about people with disabilities. [More Information]
12. Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice
    The Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in all types of housing transactions. According to the DOJ web site, recent enforcement efforts have focused on discriminatory zoning and the accessibility of newly constructed multifamily housing. [More Information]
13. Combined Health Information Database
    This on-line database lists a wealth of health promotion and education materials and program descriptions from all health-related agencies of the U.S. government, including the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It covers several disability topics including deafness and communication disorders, diabetes, eating disabilities and Alzheimer's disease. [More Information]
14. Commission on Civil Rights
    The Commission on Civil Rights is responsible for the investigation of complaints alleging that citizens are in some way being deprived due to their race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin, or by reason of fraudulent practices. It is also responsible for proposals of legislation created by research and appraisal of federal laws and policies. [More Information]
15. Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program, U.S. Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DoD) established the Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) in 1990 to improve accessibility for people with disabilities throughout the DoD and remove the cost of accommodations. CAP provides assistive technology as a form of reasonable accommodation to enable a qualified person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job. CAP's scope is to provide the assistive technology used to modify the computer and telecommunication environment for federal employees with disabilities. [More Information]
16. Disabilities Issues - FCC
    This page links to all the services and resources provided by the FCC to people with disabilities. [More Information]
17. Disability Preparedness - U.S. Department of Homeland Security
    This disability preparedness Web site provides practical information on how people with and without disabilities can prepare for an emergency. It also provides information for family members of, and service providers to, people with disabilities. In addition, this site includes information for emergency planners and first responders to help them to better prepare for serving persons with disabilities. [More Information]
18. Disability Resource Center, U.S. Department of Transportation
    The Department of Transportation's Disability Resource Center provides job accommodations and related services to DOT employees and job applicants. [More Information]
19. DisabilityInfo.gov
    DisabilityInfo.gov is the U.S. Government's Web portal to Federal disability-related information and resources. [More Information]
20. Education, U.S. Department of
    The main site for the U.S. Department of Education offers information about Federal education programs and services, as well as publications, links, and other information about education in the United States. Programs admininstered by the Education Dept. include the American Printing House for the Blind, Centers for Independent Living, Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers, the Early Intervention Program for Infants and Toddlers with Disabilities, the Helen Keller Center, Independent Living Services for Older Individuals Who Are Blind, the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology, the Randolph Sheppard Vending Facility Program, Rehabilitation Engineering Research Centers, Rehabilitation Research and Training Centers, State Grants for Assistive Technology, and other programs serving people with disabilities. [More Information]
21. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
    The Commission was created in order to enforce equal opportunity laws. The EEOC site contains laws, stats, publications, and news pertaining to current equal opportunity issues. [More Information]
22. Fair Housing Accessibility FIRST
    Fair Housing Accessibility FIRST is an initiative designed to promote compliance with the Fair Housing Act design and construction requirements. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in all types of housing transactions. Fair Housing Accessibility FIRST offers comprehensive and detailed information, online web resources, and a toll-free line for technical guidance and support. The program is supported by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and administered by BearingPoint, a company based in McLean, Virginia. [More Information]
23. Federal Employment of People with Disabilities
    The United States Office of Personnel Management presents a list of links to organizations and publications related to the employment of people with disabilities. These websites may contain other resources that may be useful. [More Information]
24. Healthfinder
    A gateway consumer health and human services information web site from the U.S. government. Healthfinder contains selected online publications, clearinghouses, databases, web sites, and support and self-help groups, as well as contact information for government agencies and not-for-profit organizations that produce reliable information for the public. [More Information]
25. Housing and Urban Development, Department of
    HUD's mission is to increase homeownership, support community development and increase access to affordable housing free from discrimination. The HUD "People with Disabilities" page contains information about housing for those with disabilities. It has information on topics such as housing support and financing programs, accessible housing, fair housing guidelines, homelessness, and indipendent living. [More Information]
26. HUD USER
    Sponsored by the Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R), U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, HUD USER is a source for research and data that offers an in-depth view of housing in the United States. It provides free downloads of more than 1,000 publications and data sets published by PD&R. Most of the reports can also be ordered in hard copy from the HUD USER Web Store for a nominal fee. [More Information]
27. Interagency Committee on Disability Research
    The Interagency Committee on Disability Research is mandated "to promote coordination and cooperation among Federal departments and agencies conducting rehabilitation research programs." [More Information]
28. National Assistive Technology Advocacy Project
    Funded through a grant from the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), this project provides nationwide support services to Protection and Advocacy (P&A) and Client Assistance Program attorneys and advocates, as well as Legal Services and private attorneys who are working on AT advocacy issues. The project's web site features downloadable booklets on funding AT through Social Security, SSI (Supplementatl Security Income), Medicare, Medicaid, vocational rehabilitation, and the public schools' special education system. The project's online newsletter is the AT Advocate. [More Information]
29. National Center for Health Statistics
    NCHS, a part of the CDC, is principal health statistics agency of the U.S. It compiles statistical information to guide actions and policies to improve the health of our people. This an authoritative source for disability-related statistics. [More Information]
30. National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
    NCBDDD promotes the health of babies, children, and adults, and enhances the potential for full, productive living. Its work includes identifying the causes of birth defects and developmental disabilities, helping children to develop and reach their full potential, and promoting health and well-being among people of all ages with disabilities. [More Information]
31. National Council on Disabilities
    The NCD is an independent agency that makes recommendations to legislatures concerning topics that affect Americans with disabilities. Their purpose is to propose policies, programs and procedures that create equal opportunities for those with disabilities. [More Information]
32. National Eye Institute
    This institute was established in order to protect and prolong the eyesight of Americans. It is a sector of NIH. This sight contains information on research and treatments. [More Information]
33. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
    A component of the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Public Health Service, NINDS is the leading supporter of biomedical research on disorders of the brain and nervous system. This site has updated information on brain research as well as more general information on stroke and other neurological disorders. [More Information]
34. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders
    Part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the NIDCD conducts and supports biomedical and behavioral research and research training in normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, smell, taste, voice, speech and language. The Institute also conducts and supports research and research training in disease prevention and health promotion and the special biomedical and behavioral problems associated with people having communication impairments and disorders. Don't forget to explore all of the information resources like the NIDCD Information Clearinghouse. [More Information]
35. National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research
    NIDRR provides leadership and support for a comprehensive program of research related to the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities. Its programmatic efforts are aimed at improving the lives of individuals with disabilities from birth through adulthood. NIDRR conducts comprehensive and coordinated programs of research and related activities to maximize the full inclusion, social integration, employment and independent living of individuals of all ages with disabilities. Its focus includes research in areas such as employment; health and function; technology for access and function; independent living and community integration; and other associated disability research areas. NIDRR is part of the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services. [More Information]
36. National Library of Medicine
    This site offers a wide variety of authoritative health and disability information: catalogs, databases, historical materials, publications, training, research programs, announcements, exhibits, jobs, and much more. [More Information]
37. National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped
    The NLS is provided by the Library of Congress. The site includes information on library services for the blind, an on-line catalog listing braille and recorded books available from the NLS and other library services around the world, and reference circulars on a variety of blindness-related topics. [More Information]
38. National Mental Health Information Center
    The National Mental Health Information Center was developed for users of mental health services and their families, the general public, policy makers, providers, and the media. This resource is sponsored by the Center for Mental Health Service (CMHS), a component of SAMHSA, the Federal government's lead agency for improving quality and availability of substance abuse prevention, addiction treatment and mental health services in the United States. There are many FREE government publications on-line, and available to order, on mental health issues. Other areas include a "newsroom" of the latest mental health articles; a children's area; Spanish-language publications and links; and a calendar of mental health related events searchable by date or keyword. [More Information]
39. Office of Disability Employment Policy, U.S. Department of Labor
    ODEP's mission is to provide leadership to increase employment opportunities for adults and youth with disabilities. Its customers include individuals with disabilities and their families; private employers and their employees; Federal, State, and local government agencies; educational and training institutions; disability advocates and providers of services and government employers. ODEP also provides information on the employment provisions of the ADA. [More Information]
40. Office of Personnel Management
    OPM is the main portal for employment information and connecting job applicants with Federal agencies and departments. OPM connects people and their skills and talents to Federal agencies that need specific human resources and provides these agencies with policies and guidance that enable them to capitalize on these skills and talents. Specific information is available at the "Federal Employment of People with Disabilities" in the "Career Opportunities" area. [More Information]
41. Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, U.S. Dept. of Education
    OSERS is committed to improving results and outcomes for people with disabilities of all ages. To realize this commitment, OSERS programs that help educate children and youth with disabilities, provides for the rehabilitation of youth and adults with disabilities and supports research to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. This site provides information on OSERS programs, funding, publications and products, research, and other resources. [More Information]
42. Office of Special Education Programs, U.S. Department of Education
    OSEP is dedicated to improving results for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities ages birth through 21 by providing leadership and financial support to assist states and local districts. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) authorizes formula grants to states, and discretionary grants to institutions of higher education and other non-profit organizations to support research, demonstrations, technical assistance and dissemination, technology and personnel development and parent-training and information centers. OSEP is a component of OSERS in the Dept. of Education. [More Information]
43. Office on Disability, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
    The HHS Office on Disability serves as the focal point for the implementation and coordination of policies, programs, and special initiatives related to disabilities with the Department and with other Federal agencies. The Office oversees the implementation and coordination of disability programs, policies, and special initiatives. [More Information]
44. President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities
    PCPID, formerly the President's Committee on Mental Retardation (PCMR), is a federal advisory committee, established by presidential executive order to advise the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on issues concerning citizens with intellectual disabilities, coordinate activities between different federal agencies and assess the impact of their policies upon the lives of citizens with intellectual disabilities and their families. The Committee produces an annual report to the President which is the product of members of the Committee resulting from a variety of Committee conferences. All Committee activities include input from self-advocates (consumers), family members, professionals, researchers, service providers, state agency leaders and direct support professionals. [More Information]
45. Rehabilitation Services Administration, U.S. Department of Education
    Part of OSERS in the U.S. Dept. of Education, RSA oversees formula and discretionary grant programs that help individuals with physical or mental disabilities to obtain employment and live more independently through the provision of such supports as counseling, medical and psychological services, job training and other individualized services. RSA's major Title I formula grant program provides funds to state vocational rehabilitation agencies to provide employment-related services for individuals with disabilities, giving priority to individuals who are significantly disabled. [More Information]
46. Section 508
    Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires that all Federal electronic and information technology is accessible to people with disabilities. This site, provided by the General Services Administration, is a tool for Federal employees and the public to access resources for understanding and executing the requirements of Section 508. [More Information]
47. Smithsonian Institution Accessibility Program
    This site offers information on the efforts of the Smithsonian to offer accessible exhibits, learning activities, publications, and multimedia materials. [More Information]
48. Social Security Administration
    This site offers comprehensive information on the benefits programs administered by the Social Security Administration. It contains an electronic newsletter, publications, claims and services, research, the budget, rules, and links to international and other Social Security sites. [More Information]
49. Standards.gov: Assistive Technology
    This section of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Web site explains the definitions of assistive technology, provides links to information on Federal laws, regulations and standards affecting the assistive technology industry, and other resources on State laws and international standards. [More Information]
50. Ticket to Work Program - Social Security Administration
    The Ticket to Work Program provides most people receiving Social Security benefits (beneficiaries) more choices for receiving employment services. Under this program the Social Security Administration (SSA) issues ticket to eligible beneficiaries who, in turn, may choose to assign those tickets to an Employment Network (EN) of their choice to obtain employment services, vocational rehabilitation services, or other support services necessary to achieve a vocational (work) goal. The EN, if they accept the ticket, will coordinate and provide appropriate services to help the beneficiary find and maintain employment. [More Information]
51. Transportation, U.S. Department of
    The DOT site provides access to national transportation laws, rules and regulations. For specific information on disabilitiy issues, go to the "Accessibility" section of the "Citizen Services" area. [More Information]
52. Traumatic Brain Injury Collaboration Space (TBICS)
    TBICS is a learning, collaboration, and benchmarking tool for the Grantees and others affiliated with the Federal Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Program. TBICS captures successful TBI systems change strategies and makes them available in a dynamic and meaningful way. [More Information]
53. Veteran's Affairs Rehabilitation Research and Development Service
    "An intramural program for improving the quality of life of impaired and disabled veterans, Rehab R&D is dedicated to the well-being of America's veterans through a full spectrum of research: from approved rehabilitation research projects, through evaluation and technology transfer to final clinical application." [More Information]
54. Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of
    The VA provides Federal benefits to veterans and their dependents. The department operates nationwide programs for health care, financial assistance and burial benefits. Veterans may be entitled to medically-necessary assistive technology as part of their VA health care benefits. In addition, the VA’s Blind Rehabilitation Service may provide AT devices for blind and visually impaired veterans, and eligible veterans may receive employment-related AT through the Independent Living Program of VA Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Services. Severely disabled veterans who are entitled to a home especially adapted for their needs due to loss of mobility may receive grants or loans through the Specially Adapted Housing Program. [More Information]

View State Specific Organizations

1. 2005 White House Conference on Aging
   The White House Conference on Aging (WHCoA) occurs once a decade. The theme for the 2005 WHCoA is "The Booming Dynamics of Aging: From Awareness to Action" which reflects the WHCoA's legislative mandate to focus on the aging of today and tomorrow, including 78 million baby boomers born between 1946 and 1964. The four pervious conferences have served as catalysts for the development and enhancement of national, state and local aging policies in the United States. Governors of all 50 States, the U.S. Territories, Puerto Rico, and the Mayor of the District of Columbia, Members of the 109th Congress, and the National Congress of American Indians select the majority of the delegates to participate in the 2005 WHCoA. The exhibit hall will be open to the public on December 13. [More Information]
2. 2009 Interagency Disability Educational Awareness Showcase (IDEAS)
   IDEAS is the General Services Administration's (GSA's) premier event focused on partnering industry and education with government to meet the requirements under Sections 504 and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Attendees will be able to find answers at IDEAS to the changing needs of the federal government regarding information technology, laws and regulations affecting accessibility. Through workshops presented by GSA, discussions, industry exhibits and the opportunity to network with peers implementing assistive technology, IDEAS will provide attendees with a information on Section 508 and assistive technologies. [More Information]

1. Rehabilitation Services Administration is asking for public input leading up to the reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
   The Rehabilitation Services Administration is asking for public input leading up to the reauthorization of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, which expires October 1 2003. A series of six public meetings will be held at locations across the U.S. during the next four months. [More Information]
2. "Access America for People with Disabilities" Website Opens
   In keeping with President Clinton's vision of using information technology to increase and improve customer service, the President announced a new website, Access America for People with Disabilities - www.disAbility.gov - that will serve as a "one-stop" electronic link to an enormous range of useful information to people with disabilities and their families. The website contains information relating to children and youth; employment, self employment, and entrepreneurship; transportation; health care and long term services and supports; choice and self-determination; recreation and travel; civil rights and protections; college, adult and vocational education; housing; technology; income supports; tax credits and deductions; disability statistics; and emergency preparedness. [More Information]
3. "Technology Assessment of the U.S. Assistive Technology Industry"
   A report, "Technology Assessment of the U.S. Assistive Technology Industry," has been released by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Strategic Industries and Economic Security, Strategic Analysis Division. [More Information]
4. Accessing Opportunity: The Plan for Employment of People with Disabilities in the Federal Government
   Are you a person with a disability who is interested in working for the U.S. Government or is already a government employee? Then you need to familiarize your self with the new Federal policy on hiring and employing people with disabilities. Entitled Accessing Opportunity: The Plan for Employment of People with Disabilities in the Federal Government, this new policy and associated materials can be read and downloaded from the Office of Personnel Management's website. [More Information]
5. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Technical Assistance CD-ROM
   The U.S. Department of Justice is making available a new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Technical Assistance CD-ROM. The free CD-ROM contains a complete collection of the Department's ADA regulations, architectural design standards, and technical assistance publications. Designed for easy use on laptop computers in the field, or other computers that lack high speed Internet access, the CD-ROM is intended to make searching documents and identifying appropriate ADA information easier and more efficient. [More Information]
6. Assistive Technology Solutions
   If you have great ideas for new products for people with disabilities but just don't know how to get them from the drawing board to consumers, you might find it helpful to contact Assistive Technology Solutions. Its primary focus is to enhance the availability of assistive technology by making the "creative process" a little easier. [More Information]
7. Center for International Rehabilitation Research Information and Exchange (CIRRIE)
   The Center for International Rehabilitation Research Information and Exchange (CIRRIE) is in the process of developing a free international research database that will be operational by May 2000. Users will be able to locate research in their field by country through the CIRRIE website (http://cirrie.buffalo.edu). This database will provide valuable assistance to U.S. rehabilitation research conference organizers, funded by the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services (OSERS), who are trying to establish an international component within domestic conferences by involving eminent colleagues from other countries. Similarly, CIRRIE will assist research organizations in other countries to sponsor rehabilitation experts from the U.S. to speak at their conferences. In both cases, CIRRIE will provide airfare, while the hosting institution will be responsible for meals, lodging, and other travel expenses. CIRRIE also supports the use of tele-conferencing to enable researchers in the U.S. to present at conferences in other conferences, and vice versa. CIRRIE support is available for visits related to planning, conducting, or preparing research, lecturing, providing technical assistance, and similar forms of collaboration. The CIRRIE website will provide an electronic bulletin board and discussion groups (Rehab Talk) on the various areas of rehabilitation research, providing a forum for researchers from the U.S. to remain engaged with researchers in other countries on a regular basis. Further information on all of CIRRIE programs, including the Travel Grant Application Form, can be found on CIRRE's website. Hard copies of CIRRIE materials or materials in alternate formats are available upon request. If you are interested in an application, or further information about any CIRRIE programs, please contact: CIRRIE State University of New York at Buffalo Center for Assistive Technology 515 Kimball Tower Buffalo, New York 14214-3079 Phone 716/829-3141 ext. 149. Fax: 716/829-3217. E-mail: pipitone@acsu.buffalo.edu [More Information]
8. Federal Information Technology Accessibility Initiative (FITAI)
   The U.S. Government has launched the Federal Information Technology Accessibility Initiative (FITAI) to ensure that all Federal agencies' electronic and information technology is accessible to people with disabilities. This interagency effort is mandated by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. Section 508 was enacted to eliminate barriers in information technology, to make available new opportunities for people with disabilities, and to encourage development of technologies that will help achieve these goals. FITAI will offer information and technical assistance to assist agencies in providing of access to all of their electroninc and information technology for people with disabilities and to provide an informal means of cooperation and sharing of information on the implementation of Section 508. [More Information]
9. Final Regulations for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1997 (IDEA '97)
   The Department of Education published its final regulations for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1997 (IDEA '97) on March 12, 1999. The final regulations were published later than expected as Department staff were addressing nearly 6,000 comments received on the proposed regulations. Interested parties may obtain a copy of the final regulations at the Families and Advocates Partnership for Education (FAPE) website, http://www.fape.org. A summary of the final regulations, along with a sampling of issues are included in the September, 1999 issue of Exceptional Parent. To find out more about Exceptional Parent, contact: Exceptional Parent Magazine 555 Kinderkamack Road Oradell, NJ 07649 Phone: 877-372-7368 [More Information]
10. IDEAS 2000 Conference to Highlight Methods to Increase Employment for People with Disabilities
    The annual Interagency Disability Educational Awareness Showcase (IDEAS) 2000 conference will take place on October 17 and 18 2000 at the U.S. Department of Agriculture Headquarters at 1400 Independence Ave. SW, Room 1006-S, Washington, D.C. IDEAS 2000 will feature workshops, discussions and exhibits highlighting methods to increase employment for people with disabilities. Hosted by the Department of Agriculture and cosponsored by the General Services Administration and the Presidential Task Force on Employment of Adults with Disabilities, there are two central themes for the conference: Implementation of Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Presidential Executive Order of hiring 100,000 new federal employees with disabilities. Attorney General Janet Reno has been invited as the keynote speaker. [More Information]
11. Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM)
    65 consumer and provider groups - such as the Paralyzed Veterans of America and the American Foundation for the Blind - have launched the Independence Through Enhancement of Medicare and Medicaid (ITEM) coalition. The ITEM Coalition will target policies under Medicare and Medicaid that hinder 2.5 million Americans living with disabilities and other chronic disabling conditions from obtaining needed assistive equipment. [More Information]
12. Javits-Wagner-O'Day Renamed "AbilityOne Program"
    The Javits-Wagner-O'Day (JWOD) program is now called the AbilityOne Program. AbilityOne is a Federal initiative to help people who are blind or severely disabled find employment by working for nonprofit agencies that sell products and/or services to the U.S. Government. In 2006, nearly 47,000 people were employed through the program, making AbilityOne the largest source of work opportunities for people who are blind or have other severe disabilities in the U.S. [More Information]
13. Newly Proposed Accessibility Law for Recreational Facilities
    A public hearing has been scheduled by the U.S. Access Board to provide an opportunity for interested parties to comment on the newly proposed accessibility law for recreational facilities. The hearing will be held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dallas, Texas on August 26, 1999, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The Access Board is providing only this one opportunity for those interested in these changes in the law to make public comment on the proposed changes. The hearing will address accessibility issues as they pertain to recreation facilities including sports facilities, places of amusement, golf, boating and fishing facilities. The U.S. Access Board currently plans to publish a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on recreation facilities in late June or early July and will provide a 120-day comment period following this notice. The purpose of the hearing is to obtain feedback not only from those within the disability community, but to hear from developers, architects and building and facility owners who have an interest in impacting the scale and scope of this law. The U.S. Access Board convened a 27-member advisory committee during 1993 and 1994 to make recommendations on issues related to making recreational areas accessible. The Access Board also sponsored an informational meeting on access to miniature golf facilities in September 1996 to obtain additional information on issues related to access specifically regarding miniature golf courses. Anyone interested in the design or operation of recreational facilities should plan to attend. Please put this date on your calendar. The Access Board is an independent Federal agency responsible for developing and maintaining accessibility guidelines under the ADA. For information about signing up to attend the hearing, contact Accessology, Inc. at 972-434-0068 or the Access Board directly. [More Information]
14. Nominations Open for the Secretary of Labor's 2004 New Freedom Initiative Award
    The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) invites nominations for the Secretary of Labor's 2004 New Freedom Initiative Award. Established in 2002, this award recognizes businesses, organizations and individuals who have demonstrated exemplary and innovative efforts in furthering the employment objectives of President George W. Bush's New Freedom Initiative. The deadline for receipt of nominations is June 6, 2004. [More Information]
15. OPM Launches New Employment Web Site
    The U.S. Office of Personnel Management recently launched a new web site designed to provide information on Federal Employment for People with Disabilities. While the target audience is Federal human resources personnel and hiring managers as well as job seekers with disabilities, there is useful information for anyone interested in employment. [More Information]
16. President Obama Announces New Initiatives During National Disability Employment Awareness Month
    On October 5, President Obama announced that his Administration is taking several steps to ensure that there is fair and equal access to employment for all Americans, particularly the 54 million people in this country living with disabilities. The following are some of the steps the Obama Administration will take:
    • The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) will collaborate to sponsor and organize a day long Federal Government-wide job fair for people with disabilities.
    • EEOC and the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division will hold four Town Hall meetings throughout the nation to share information about the ADA Amendments Act proposed regulations and to gather comments on them.
    • The Department of Justice will release a video that will identify and respond to a number of common myths held by employers about workers with disabilities.
    • OPM will create and lead a task force comprised of representatives from key Federal Departments and Agencies that have developed and implemented model practices for recruiting, retaining and advancing employees with disabilities.
    [More Information]
17. Redesigned ADA Home Page
    The Home Page improvements make it easier for users to navigate the ADA Website and to search on ADA issues or find specific settlement agreements, publications, or press releases. A new Tenth Anniversary Section of the Home Page was added to highlight the Section's Special Tenth Anniversary Status Report, its 10 Regional Press Reports, and provide links to a new page for Tenth Anniversary Stories and Pictures. On this page, the Department will post a new ADA Story and Picture each day during the later two weeks of July. [More Information]
18. Spanish Version of Healthfinder Introduced
    HHS Secretary Tommy G. Thompson recently announced the launch of Healthfinder® Espanol, a Spanish-language Web site that helps consumers track down reliable health information quickly and easily on the Internet. Available at www.healthfinder.gov/espanol, this new easy-to-use Spanish-language consumer resource offers over 300 topics from 70 government agencies and nonprofit organizations. A unique feature of Healthfinder® Espanol is the ease with which users of the site can switch between Spanish and English versions of the same information. English-speaking family members or health professionals can use this feature to search in English for information to share with Spanish-speaking relatives or patients. [More Information]
19. Steven James Tingus Named Director of National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research
    U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Paige announced the appointment of Steven Tingus to be the director of NIDRR [More Information]
20. Surgeon General Issues First Call To Action on Disability
    U.S. Surgeon General Richard H. Carmona, M.D., M.P.H., FACS, today released "The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Improve the Health and Wellness of Persons with Disabilities," appealing to all Americans to help increase the quality of life for people with disabilities through better health care and understanding. This first-ever Surgeon General's Call to Action on disability is being issued on the 15th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. "This Call to Action is a call to caring. Every life has value and every person has promise," Surgeon General Carmona said. "The reality is that for too long we provided lesser care to people with disabilities. Today, we must redouble our efforts so that people with disabilities achieve full access to disease prevention and health promotion services." Developed by the Surgeon General in collaboration with the HHS Office on Disability, the Call to Action describes the particular challenges to health and well being faced by persons of all ages with disabilities and identifies four goals that, together, can help people with disabilities experience full, rewarding and above all healthy lives as contributing members of their communities. [More Information]
21. telecommunications services providers and equipment manufacturers make their products accessible and usable to persons with disabilities
    The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is planning on voting on Section 255 Report and Order on Wednesday, July 14, 1998 at 9:30 a.m. Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act requires that telecommunications services providers and equipment manufacturers make their products accessible and usable to persons with disabilities, if this is readily achievable. You may attend the meeting in person at the FCC, 445 12th Street, SW, Washington, DC, and express your views on telecommunications access to Chairman Kennard and the other Commissioners. C-SPAN is considering airing the meeting, but needs to hear from consumers if they are interested in this type of programming. If you would like C-SPAN to cover this historic day for the disability community, please call or send them an E-mail. Phone: 202/526-7963. At prompt: hit 2, "Please cover FCC meeting on disability issues on July 14 at 9:30 a.m." E-mail: events@c-span.org. For more information about the FCC meeting, contact: Pam Gregory, Deputy Director Disabilities Issues Task Force Federal Communications Commission 445 12th Street SW, Suite 7B432 Washington, DC 20554 Phone: 202/418-2498 (voice); 202/418-1169 (TTY). Fax: 202/418-2807. [More Information]
22. U.S. Census Issues Report - Disability Status 2000
    Census 2000 counted 49.7 million people with some type of disability. They represented 19.3 percent of the 257.2 million people who were aged 5 and older in the civilian noninstitutionalized population - or nearly one person in five. This report provides a statistical analysis of the census results regarding Americans with disabilities. [More Information]
23. U.S. House Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness
    The U.S. House Subcommittee on 21st Century Competitiveness is holding a hearing on "Assessing the Assistive Technology Act of 1998" at 10:30 AM on Thursday, March 21, 2002 in Room 2175 of the Rayburn House Office Building. We encourage all interested parties to attend. Witnesses scheduled to appear include: -Mr. Mark Schultz, Director, Assistive Technology Partnership, Nebraska Department of Education, Lincoln, Nebraska. -Ms. Carol Novak, Parent, Tampa, Florida. -Mr. Bill Ward, Executive Director, Independent Empowerment Center, Manassas, VA. -Mr. Paul Rasinski, Executive Director, Maryland Technology Assistance Program, Baltimore, Maryland. Additional witnesses to be announced. [More Information]

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