Dingell, DeSaulnier Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, and Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10) introduced the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Centers to Establish National Training (AACCENT) Act, to expand access to augmentative and alternative communication for Americans across the country. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes any tool, technology, or service that supports people who use little or no verbal speech to communicate. AAC can enhance communication, foster language and literacy development and help millions of people access communication and participate in all aspects of life. “Augmentative and alternative communication services, devices, and technology are essential for millions of Americans to work, learn, and stay connected with their communities and the world around them,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. “AAC tools can significantly improve individuals’ quality of life and open opportunities that otherwise would not be available to them. This bill is a significant step to increase education and expand access to these vital resources.” “Making assistive and augmentative technology more available will help the almost 5 million Americans with complex communication needs better connect with their communities, succeed in the classroom, participate in the workforce, and overall thrive,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “Partnering with and advocating for the disability community has been one of the greatest sources of pride and joy throughout my career and I am proud to continue that work alongside Congresswoman Dingell by introducing this important legislation that will help millions of Americans live with greater independence and dignity.” The AACCENT Act will establish three national resource centers coordinated to improve access to AAC information, tools and support for AAC users and their families. They also aim to increase the capacity and leadership skills of people who use AAC, their families and professionals. More than 4 million people in the United States cannot reliably meet their daily communication needs using verbal speech. People who use and can benefit from AAC include those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy, Down syndrome), acquired or degenerative conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s) and those with temporary conditions that limit vocal speech (e.g., those who are intubated post-surgery). Advances in AAC have enhanced communication and improved outcomes for millions of Americans, yet not everyone has access to AAC. Lack of knowledge and resources creates barriers for people who can benefit from AAC. The AACCENT Act will help reduce these barriers by creating resource centers focused on AAC. The legislation is endorsed by the American Music Therapy Association, Disability Belongs, Autism Society of America, The Arc of the U.S., and ANCOR. "Communication is fundamental to self-determination, belonging, and full participation in community life. The AACCENT Act recognizes that people with expressive communication disabilities deserve meaningful access to the tools, knowledge, and support needed to communicate authentically. Disability Belongs is proud to support this legislation and its commitment to disability-led solutions that expand opportunity across education, employment, health care, and community living,” said Ariel Simms, President and Chief Executive Officer of Disability Belongs. "Communication is a fundamental part of being able to participate fully in our communities, yet too many people with Autism and other developmental disabilities face barriers to accessing the tools and support they need to be heard. The AACCENT Act recognizes that access to augmentative and alternative communication is not a luxury, it is essential to learning, working, building relationships, and participating fully in everyday life. We thank Representative Dingell for championing this important legislation and investing in the training, technical assistance, and resources needed to ensure every person has the opportunity to communicate and participate fully in society,” said Joseph P. Joyce, President and CEO, Autism Society of America. Bill text can be found HERE .