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Public Policy

The goal of the Disability Policy Collaboration is to impact national public policy for people with developmental disabilities, including those with cerebral palsy and intellectual disability, and their friends, families and loved ones.

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Technology

Guidance Available on Complying with Section 508 Access Requirements

With Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act now in effect, the Federal government has taken the lead in ensuring access to electronic and information technology for the public and employees. The law, which requires that such technology be accessible when procured by Federal agencies, became effective in June. President George Bush drew attention to the new requirements in a visit to the Department of Defense's Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program Technology Evaluation Center (CAPTEC), which evaluates and demonstrates assistive technology for people with disabilities. The President noted that with Section 508 in effect, "there will be more opportunities for people of all abilities to access government information." He declared that the law will make the Federal government "a better employer" in view of the estimated 120,000 people with disabilities who hold Federal jobs. In addition, it can help narrow the "digital divide," which is reflected in data cited by the President that shows computer usage and Internet access for people with disabilities to be half that of people without disabilities.

On-line Training
The Access Board has supplemented its Web-based materials on Section 508 with information that clarifies each of the technical chapters of the standards it issued last December. In addition, the Federal Information Technology Accessibility Initiative, an interagency partnership organized by the General Services Administration (GSA) that serves as a lead resource on Section 508, recently launched a new on-line training program known as the "508 Universe" on its Web site. This program provides a user-friendly introduction to the law, the standards, and updated procurement regulations. It currently features a course that focuses on accessible Web sites and developing Web pages that meet the 508 standards.

Conferences and Expos

GSA, which together with the Access Board has a lead role in Section 508's implementation, is spearheading various efforts to disseminate information on the new requirements. Several events are scheduled in coming weeks:

  • Accessibility Forum, September 19 - 21, 2001
    Gallaudet University, Kellogg Conference Center, Washington, DC

    Launched by GSA last May, the Accessibility Forum is comprised of over 80 representatives from industry, government, disability groups, academic and research entities, and standard-setting bodies. The Forum aims to identify, prioritize and conduct projects that assist government in making informed decisions about Section 508 related procurement, and allow government, industry, and users to communicate and highlight areas where further effort is needed. The Forum is actively seeking additional membership from interested groups and is currently involved in establishing its organizational structure, the rules by which it will conduct business, and an agenda for upcoming projects. These efforts are proceeding through volunteer teams from the membership. More information is available on the Web.

  • Interagency Disability Educational Awareness Showcase (IDEAS) Conference, October 2 and 3, 2001
    Hyatt Regency at Capitol Hill, Washington DC

    The annual Interagency Disability Educational Awareness Showcase (IDEAS) Conference has been designated as the Federal government's kick-off event for National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This year's conference, "Accessibility for All: The Empowerment of Section 508," will feature workshops, discussions, and exhibits highlighting methods to increase accessibility to information technology for people with disabilities. Hosted by GSA and organized by a 25-member interagency planning committee representing Federal agencies nationwide, the conference offers the general public an opportunity to learn more about accessible technology and disability legislation. Write for more information now.

  • Section 508 Expo, October 10, 2001
    Ronald Reagan Building, Washington, DC

    The Section 508 Expo will be a key venue for the latest information on section 508 implementation and industry's cutting edge access solutions, products and services. The agenda includes sessions focused on procurement, Web site accessibility, industry, and other topics. Further details will be provided on the Section 508 Web site.