On July 26, 1990, President George H.W. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to ensure the civil rights of people with disabilities. This legislation established a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities. On July 26, Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) will join in the celebration of the 30th anniversary of the signing of this landmark legislation.
The ADA has expanded opportunities for Americans with disabilities by reducing barriers and changing perceptions, and increasing full participation in community life. However, there is still work to be done.
We believe that full inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities must also involve financial empowerment. In our view, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act passed in 2014 is one of the most exciting and empowering pieces of legislation since the ADA.
On this 30th anniversary of the ADA, we at PATF pledge to do our part by furthering financial empowerment for people with disabilities through our programs and through our advocacy.
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In case you haven’t heard, in honor of the ADA anniversary, Disability PRIDE Virtual PA is hosting a month-long celebration with lots of good content. PATF was thrilled to present on three topics that are important to us all:
- Funding Solutions for Assistive Technology – this recording should be available on Disability PRIDE’s YouTube channel soon
- Smart Homes Made Simple – Facebook live recording
- Overview of PA ABLE Savings Program – Facebook live recording