What New Deaf-Blind Equipment Program Should Look Like

In comments filed at the Federal Communications Commission, the Coalition of Organizations for Accessible Technology addressed the Deaf-Blind Technology Equipment Distribution program, which is required under the 21st Century Communications & Video Accessibility Act of 2010.

COAT raised concerns about the definition of deaf-blind and the requirement for low-income people only to participate. They recommended that no more than 10% of available funding be allocated for research and development and suggested that the Commission make grants available for community-based organizations to conduct the necessary research and needs assessment. The Consumer Groups stated they are also strongly opposed to using existing state distribution programs for equipment distribution for the purpose of the new requirement, among other points made.