[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 82 (Tuesday, June 15, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1131-E1132]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     IMPROVING ACCESS TO ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH 
                        DISABILITIES ACT OF 2004

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                         HON. JAMES R. LANGEVIN

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 14, 2004

  Mr. LANGEVIN. Madam Speaker, I rise to commend my colleagues on the 
passage of H.R. 4278. This bill reauthorizes and makes permanent the 
Assistive Technology Act, which plays an instrumental role in promoting 
awareness of and access to services and devices that allow individuals 
with disabilities to lead independent lives, to work, to participate 
fully in community and school, and to make informed choices in all 
aspects of their lives.
  This legislation, which passed unanimously under suspension 
yesterday, is a result of a bipartisan commitment to improving the 
lives of people with disabilities. Members of Congress from both 
parties recognized the valuable role that the Tech Act plays in 
providing support to programs in all 50 states and worked together to 
ensure the continuation and vitality of the state grant programs. Most 
importantly, this bill will get technology into the hands of people who 
need it.
  My own background and experience gives me a unique perspective on the 
value of assistive technology. Indeed, access to technology has made it 
possible for me to serve as a Member of the United States Congress. 
Through my own experience and opportunities to interact with others in 
the disability community, I am keenly aware that access can make the 
difference between a life on public assistance and a productive, 
fulfilling career. With the unemployment rate within the disability 
community at a staggering 70 percent, we must support and promote the 
programs that are making a difference. State assistive technology 
programs have proven to be instrumental in getting people back into 
their communities.
  When it was first enacted, in 1988, the Tech Act contained sunset 
provisions which would

[[Page E1132]]

have allowed funding for state programs to expire. Since that time, it 
has become obvious that the world of technology is continuously 
changing. Policy makers have learned over the last decade that 
responsible technology-related legislation must be more enduring. I am 
so proud to have been a part of this House-passed legislation, which 
ends sunsets and provides a permanent funding stream for these state 
programs.
  I look forward to our continued work together to develop new ways to 
break down barriers to technology for all people with disabilities.

                          ____________________