Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 108 Part 1.djvu/77

 PUBLIC LAW 103-218—MAR. 9, 1994 108 STAT. 51 SEC. 3. FINDINGS, PURPOSES, AND POLICY. (a) SECTION HEADING. —Section 2 (29 U.S.C. 2201) is amended by striking the heading and inserting the following: "SEC. 2. FINDINGS, PURPOSES, AND POLICY.". (b) FINDINGS. —Section 2(a) (29 U.S.C. 2201(a)) is amended to read as follows: "(a) FINDINGS.— The Congress finds as follows: "(1) Disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of individuals to— "(A) live independently; "(B) enjoy self-determination; "(C) make choices; "(D) pursue meaningful careers; and "(E) enjoy full inclusion and integration in the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of American society. "(2) During the past decade, there have been major advances in modern technology. Technology is now a powerful force in the lives of all residents of the United States. Technology can provide important tools for making the performance of tasks quicker and easier. "(3) For some individuals with disabilities, assistive technology devices and assistive technology services are necessary to enable the individuals— "(A) to have greater control over their lives; "(B) to participate in, and contribute more fully to, activities in their home, school, and work environments, and in their communities; "(C) to interact to a greater extent with individuals who do not have disabilities; and "(D) to otherwise benefit from opportunities that are taken for granted by individuals who do not have disabilities. "(4) Substantial progress has been made in the development of assistive technology devices, including adaptations to existing equipment, that significantly benefit individuals with disabilities of all ages. Such devices can be used to increase the involvement of such individuals in, and reduce expenditures associated with, programs and activities such as early intervention, education, rehabilitation and training, employment, residential living, independent living, recreation, and other aspects of daily living. "(5) Most States have technology-related assistance programs carried out under this Act. In spite of the efibrts made by such programs, there remains a need to support systems change and advocacy activities in order to assist States to develop and implement consumer-responsive, comprehensive statewide programs of technology-related assistance for individuals with disabilities of all ages. "(6) Notwithstanding the efforts of such State technology- related assistance programs, there is still a lack of— "(A) resources to pay for assistive technology devices and assistive technology services; "(B) trained personnel to assist individuals with disabilities to use such devices and services;

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