News Release
November 4, 2004
Contact: James A. Rothrock, Commissioner
Phone: 804/662-7010
Email: James.Rothrock@drs.virginia.gov
Web: www.vadrs.org
New Law Ensures Virginians with Disabilities Access to Assistive Technology
Richmond, VA - Every day, people with disabilities rely on assistive technology (AT) such as wheelchairs, adaptive computers, and communication devices to function more independently at work, in their home and in the community. On October 25th, President George W. Bush signed into law the Assistive Technology Act of 2004, ensuring that people with disabilities, employers and service providers has access to assistive technology information, devices and services.
"This new law has significant impact on our Commonwealth because it allows us to expand on the wonderful AT programs and initiatives that our state has previously implemented and will continue to support to further the employability and independence of Virginians with disabilities," said Governor Warner.
The Assistive Technology Act of 2004 extends a previous law that established Assistive Technology Act Programs across the United States. The Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS), administered by the Department of Rehabilitative Services (DRS), directs assistive technology efforts for the state of Virginia. Over the years, VATS has distinguished itself and Virginia in a number of initiatives including the following:
- VATS in partnership with other stakeholders supported the passage of "The Virginia Assistive Technology Device Warranties Act", which guarantees people with disabilities who use devices the same protection that customers have for "lemon" automobiles.
- VATS, at the direction of the Disability Commission, established the Assistive Technology Loan Fund Authority (ATLFA) which provides low-interest, guaranteed loans for the purchase of assistive technology. In collaboration with the ATLFA, VATS received federal grant funds totaling approximately $3.5 million.
- VATS and the Tech Act Projects in the Mid-Atlantic Region formed a consortium, which partnered with the Mid-Atlantic ADA & IT Information Center, and received a five year grant to ensure education-based information technology access.
- VATSand DRS developed a model accessible website for all of Virginia's disability services agencies.
- VATS & DRS are now focusing on the establishment of assistive device reutilization programs, device loan programs and device demonstrations.
"This legislation is an important milestone for people with disabilities and the agencies who serve them," said Ken Knorr, Director of Virginia Assistive Technology Systems. "It confirms our commitment to making sure that the Commonwealth's AT programs and activities directly benefit Virginians of all ages and abilities."
"DRS is proud of the VATS program and the work we do to bring assistive technology resources, equipment, and information to those who use and need them," adds DRS Commissioner Jim Rothrock. "Increased access to assistive technology means increased opportunities for people with disabilities."
Background:
The Department of Rehabilitative Services is the state agency that provides comprehensive programs and services that help people with disabilities maximize their employment and independence. For more information, please visit www.vadrs.org.
The Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS) was established in 1990 and funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research. The program's mission is to increase awareness of, and access to appropriate, affordable assistive and information technologies and services for Virginians of all ages and abilities. For more information, please visit www.vats.org.
