Posted: | October 16, 2013 02:04 PM |
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From: | Senator Christine M. Tartaglione |
To: | All Senate members |
Subject: | Co-Sponsorship of Resolution: Assistive Technology Awareness Month |
In the near future, I intend to introduce a resolution observing the month of November as Assistive Technology Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. Assistive technology, as defined by the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, can be described as “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.” Pennsylvania is a national leader in the development and implementation of assistive technology programs for citizens with disabilities and older residents with limited functional capabilities. Such services allow persons to live independently and productively in the communities of their choice, while enabling them to work, attend school and engage in hobbies and recreation. This year, during Assistive Technology Awareness Month, individuals are encouraged to become cognizant of the wide range of supportive devices, applications and programs that have become available in recent years as a result of modern technology. Further, employers may use this opportunity to learn about and offer training for assistive technologies in the workplace, through such organizations as the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, in an effort to increase the availability of disability-accessible employment positions. Please join me in recognizing the critical role of technological advancements in the lives of Pennsylvania’s disabled residents by co-sponsoring my resolution designating the month of November as Assistive Technology Awareness Month in this commonwealth. |
Introduced as SR244