To provide States with financial assistance that supports programs designed to maximize the ability of individuals with disabilities and their family members, guardians, advocates, and authorized representatives to obtain assistive technology devices and assistive technology services.
Basics:
- Program is authorized for 6 years (2005-2010)
- Sunset provision has been eliminated.
- Funds under the AT Act shall not be used for direct payment for an assistive technology device for an individual with a disability.
- Federal and State agencies are not authorized to reduce medical or other assistance or alter eligibility for a benefit or service under any federal law as a result of the AT Act.
- States must provide an assurance that the funds received through the grant will be used to supplement, and not supplant, funds available from other sources for technology related assistance, including the provision of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services.
- Any authorized activity carried out and supported by federal funds received under the Act must comply with Section 508.
- Covers people with disabilities of all ages, all disabilities, in all environments (early intervention, K-12, post-secondary, vocational rehabilitation, community living, aging services, etc.)
- Activities implemented under the Act address the needs of "targeted individuals and entities"