FCC to ensure deaf-blind Americans have access to 21st century communications technology

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Friday, 8 April 2011 17:32pm

The US media and communications regulator, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), has announced that it will spend US$10 million per year to provide low-income people who are deaf-blind with access to 21st century communications technology.

In line with the 21st Century Video and Communications Accessibility Act of 2010, the pilot program will help ensure that individuals who are deaf-blind have access to the Internet, and advanced communications, including interexchange services and advanced telecommunications and information services.

Through the newly created National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program, the FCC will make the funds available for community outreach programs as well as for meeting the costs of technology, installations and repairs.

The national program will provide funds to state-based organisations to distribute to individuals.

For those interested in reading more about accessibility policy in the USA and around the world, visit the international regulation section of the Media Access Australia website.


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