In spring 2010, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released its comprehensive National Broadband Plan and the U.S. Access Board published an invitation for the public to comment on the pending refresh of the federal government's technology accessibility obligations. This page is designed to give advocates the information to affect real change.

National Broadband Plan

The term broadband commonly refers to high-speed Internet access that is always on and faster than the traditional dial-up access. According to the FCC, the National Broadband Plan lays out a bold roadmap to America's future. These initiatives will stimulate economic growth, spur job creation, and boost our capabilities in education, healthcare, homeland security and more. As disability advocates, our job is to ensure that our constituents are well served by the Plan. The following resources will help you become familiar with the Plan, respond effectively to its recommendations and ensure that people with vision loss can fully benefit from the technology revolution.

Useful Broadband links

Section 508

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires access to the Federal government's electronic and information technology. The law covers all types of electronic and information technology in the Federal sector and is not limited to assistive technologies used by people with disabilities. The Access Board is conducting a joint update of these standards and its guidelines for telecommunications products and invite comments from the public by June 21, 2010.

How to Submit Comments on Section 508 Updates

You may submit comments, identified by docket number 2010-1 or RIN number 3014-AA37, by any of the following methods:

  • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
  • E-mail: ictrule@access-board.gov. Include docket number 2010-1 or RIN number 3014-AA37 in the subject line of the message.
  • Fax: 202-272-0081
  • Mail or Hand Delivery/Courier: Office of Technical and Informational Services, Access Board, 1331 F Street NW, suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004-1111.

All comments received will be posted without change to www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided.

Section 508 Links

  • Proposed Updates to Section 508
  • http://508-255-refresh.trace.wisc.edu/content/summary-key-issues-and-questions-anprm
    Key Issues and Questions (provided by Trace Center at University of Wisconsin-Madison)
  • http://508-255-refresh.trace.wisc.edu/content/analysis-anprm-component
    Provision by Provision Analysis (provided by Trace Center at University of Wisconsin-Madison)
Next Section 508 Key Links