information and communication technology, while the vast
majority of individuals with cognitive disabilities have limited
or no access to comprehensible information and usable
communication technologies; and
WHEREAS, Access to comprehensible information and usable
communication technologies is necessary for all individuals in
our society, particularly for individuals with cognitive
disabilities, to promote independence and self-determination and
to engage meaningfully in major aspects of life, such as
education, health promotion, employment, recreation and civic
participation; and
WHEREAS, To ensure individuals with cognitive disabilities
are entitled to inclusion and equal treatment in our democratic
society, Federal laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities
Act of 1990 (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education
Act (IDEA), the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill
of Rights Act of 2000 (DD Act), sections 501, 504 and 508 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Twenty-First Century
Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA), as
well as State and local laws, have been enacted and court
decisions have been made; and
WHEREAS, In order to enhance user independence, integration
and productivity, while reducing stigmas, individuals with
cognitive disabilities must have access to commercially
available devices and software that incorporate principles of
universal design, such as flexibility and ease of use for all;
and
WHEREAS, Technology and information access by individuals
with cognitive disabilities must be guided by standards and best
practices, such as personalization and compatibility across
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