Feds Encouraged to Develop Accessible Tech for Disabled Users, Including Vets

Members of the Senate Special Committee on Aging have been asked to prioritize regulations under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring people with disabilities have equal access to Federal technology. 

Partner at Brown, Goldstein & Levy, and former Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Eve Hill, said that creating regulations for Federal, state, and local government agencies is only the first step. More needs to be done to provide people with disabilities equal digital access more quickly. 

“While regulations are essential, it is also critical that the Justice Department not reduce its enforcement efforts,” said Hill. “Enforcement and regulation involve different skill sets; addressing one should not require sacrificing the other. Congress should provide resources specifically for the Civil Rights Division to carry out its regulatory and guidance responsibilities regarding digital technology.”

The Social Security Administration, which plays a key role in the assistance of older citizens, was also mentioned by Hill. The agency is known to refuse to acknowledge inaccessibility complaints until after a lawsuit is filed. 

Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., ranking member of the committee, agreed that Federal technology needs to be updated regularly to assist older citizens, including veterans. 

“Federal regulations have not kept up with the technological advancements that we’ve seen in this country,” said Sen. Scott. “We must keep telehealth available and accessible for all Americans, including our seniors, our military heroes, and disabled individuals so that they can take care of themselves and meet the needs that they have.”