Technology is a double-edged sword for people with disabilities.
But, if they are not accessible, they will create new barriers. I believe technology must be a tool of independence for every American. Public Access to Technology by providing grants to States to make public libraries, including those in elementary and secondary schools, technology accessible and by providing grants to colleges and universities to establish model curricula incorporating the design or use of accessible technology into academic and professional programs. Looking Ahead to the Next Generation to ensure children with disabilities full access to technology by providing grants to State Education Agencies to work with other agencies and local schools to develop model programs for integration of technology into all aspects of children with disabilities's lives, including transition from school to work. Harkin, a long-time leader in Congress on disability issues, was the chief sponsor of the Americans with Disabilities Act, landmark legislation that protects the civil rights of more than 50 million Americans with physical and mental disabilities.