The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed legislation as part of its effort to improve Internet and technology access for people with disabilities. Sponsored by Arkansas Senator Mark Pryor, the Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act (S. 3304) will amend the Communications Act of 1934 to ensure that companies make new technologies accessible for persons with disabilities. The legislation passed within days of the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

“The Internet and other emerging communication equipment are no longer a luxury. They are an essential gateway to learn, interact and conduct business,” said Pryor. “This legislation will ensure all Americans, including those with disabilities, are able to fully participate in today’s online world. I am pleased that the Senate came together with one voice to pass this important legislation.”

The legislation’s passing was met with enthusiasm from disability rights groups including the American Foundation of the Blind (AFB). “We will now be looking to the House to take up S. 3304 and ensure that this landmark legislation is sent to the President’s desk,” said Paul Schroeder, Vice President of AFB Programs & Policy. “Twenty years ago now when the ADA was signed into law, no one could have predicted the new technologies—smart phones to the Internet—that now shape our daily lives and work routines. Once signed into law, this legislation will ensure that the 25 million Americans with vision loss and the millions more with other disabilities can fully participate in the digital era.”

According to Pryor, the Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act will:

• Create a one-stop shop for information on online products and services available to blind and deaf individuals;
• Close existing gaps in accessibility by requiring technology like smart devices, including an iPhone or Blackberry, to be hearing aid compatible;
• Require that programming shown on television also be closed captioned and video described when it is posted on the Internet. ex., nightly news, Razorback games, Lost;
• Require video programming devices, such mp3 players and DVRs, to be capable of closed captioning, video description and emergency alerts; and
• Authorize federal support for specialized equipment for deaf or blind individuals.

The Act, cosponsored by Senators John Kerry (D-Mass), John Ensign (R-Nev) and Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Tex), was introduced on May 4, 2010 and passed the Senate with an amendment by unanimous consent on August 5.