Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 112 Part 5.djvu/870

 112 STAT. 3628 PUBLIC LAW 105-394—NOV. 13, 1998 29 USC 3001. SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES. (a) FINDINGS.— Congress finds the following: (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 and make choices; (C) benefit from an education; (D) pursue meaningful careers; and (E) enjoy full inclusion and integration in the economic, political, social, cultural, and educational mainstream of society in the United States. (2) Technology has become one of the primary engines for economic activity, education, and innovation in the Nation, and throughout the world. The commitment of the United States to the development and utilization of technology is one of the main factors underlying the strength and vibrancy of the economy of the United States. (3) As technology has come to play an increasingly important role in the lives of all persons in the United States, in the conduct of business, in the functioning of government, in the fostering of communication, in the conduct of commerce, and in the provision of education, its impact upon the lives of the more than 50,000,000 individuals with disabilities in the United States has been comparable to its impact upon the remainder of the citizens of the United States. Any development in mainstream technology would have profound implications for individuals with disabilities in the United States. (4) Substantial progress has been made in the development of assistive technology devices, including adaptations to existing devices that facilitate activities of daily living, that significantly benefit individuals with disabilities of all ages. Such devices and adaptations 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, and recreation programs and activities, and other aspects of daily living. (5) All States have comprehensive statewide programs of technology-related assistance. Federal support for such programs should continue, strengthening the capacity of each State to assist individuals with disabilities of all ages with their assistive technology needs. (6) Notwithstanding the efforts of such State 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; (C) information among targeted individuals about the availability and potential benefit of technology for individuals with disabihties; (D) outreach to underrepresented populations and rural populations; (E) systems that ensure timely acquisition and delivery of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services;

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