Us Congress Senate Bill SB2904

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/21/23
• Refer: 9/21/23

Caption

AACCENT Act Augmentative and Alternative Communication Centers of Excellence and National Technical Assistance Act

Impact

If enacted, SB2904 will have significant implications for state laws regarding the support and services available to individuals with communication disabilities. The bill authorizes the Secretary to award grants totaling $9 million annually over five years to eligible entities tasked with creating and maintaining national resource centers. These centers will focus on increasing access to augmentative communication technologies and fostering awareness about the needs and rights of individuals with communication disabilities. The long-term objective is to integrate these individuals more fully into society, respecting their rights to effective communication.

Summary

Senate Bill 2904, titled the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Centers of Excellence and National Technical Assistance Act, is designed to support individuals with significant expressive communication disabilities by establishing national resource centers that provide comprehensive training, technical assistance, and resources. The legislation aims to eliminate discrimination and barriers faced by individuals requiring augmentative and alternative communication methods, ensuring they have access to the tools necessary for interaction in various aspects of life, including education and employment.

Contention

Some points of contention may arise around the allocation of funding and oversight of the resource centers. Proponents argue that the creation of these centers is crucial for enhancing the quality of life and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, while skeptics may question the effectiveness of such programs and their implementation at the local level. Additionally, the representation of individuals with disabilities in the governance structure of these centers, particularly through advisory councils made up exclusively of individuals with communication disabilities, highlights the importance of self-advocacy and inclusion in policy-making processes.