Deafblind DATA Act Deafblind Disabled Americans Table Approximation Act
Impact
This legislation aims to address existing gaps in data collection methodologies by mandating the Bureau of the Census to not only assess current data on deafness and blindness but also specifically identify individuals who experience both conditions concurrently. The proposed changes would enhance the understanding of the deafblind population within the United States, estimated to range from 70,000 to 100,000 individuals based on varying data sources. Accurate data gathering is seen as a vital step towards ensuring that appropriate services and policies are designed to meet the needs of the deafblind community effectively.
Summary
House Bill 2947, referred to as the Deafblind DATA Act, proposes to require the Bureau of the Census to collect comprehensive information regarding individuals who are deafblind. The bill highlights the lack of accurate data on this population, emphasizing the necessity for a centralized count to better serve their unique needs. According to the findings presented in the bill, individuals who are deafblind face significant communication challenges and barriers to accessing essential information, thereby affecting their social, emotional, and economic well-being.
Contention
The bill underscores a collaborative effort among several legislators, indicating a bi-partisan acknowledgment of the challenges faced by individuals with dual sensory impairments. Key points of contention may emerge regarding the privacy implications related to data collection, especially in ensuring that personal identifiers are protected when public data is released. Nevertheless, supporters of the Deafblind DATA Act argue that without a strategic data framework, essential programs and services cannot be adequately tailored for this vulnerable population. Thus, this bill represents a crucial advance toward building inclusive support systems for deafblind individuals across the nation.
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