Remarks of Commissioner Mignon Clyburn at the Disability Advisory Committee

[Speech] With more than 50 million people identified as having a disability in this country, it is critical that both legacy communications services and those new and emerging technologies are accessible to all.  That is why I believe we must discuss these issues, not just when a rulemaking has “accessibility” in its title, but in each and every proceeding before the Commission. By this I mean, if a proceeding will impact the general public, we must include in that discussion, how those living with a disability will be impacted.

As we look further at our agency’s policies, including the approval of recent technologies, I wish to highlight text-to-911. I am also excited to hear, that many service providers and equipment manufacturers, have taken the lead in implementing Real Time Text (RTT). By replacing TTY technology with RTT, those who are deaf or hard of hearing, will have access to a real-time, text-based service, that is more modern and efficient.