Connecting Every Marylander To Technology

This year as we celebrate the 22nd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we are focusing on technology and the impact it has had on the lives of individuals with disabilities. When the ADA was passed in 1990, for many people, it was the beginning of access, freedom, inclusion and the opportunity to lead productive and independent lives.

The ADA opened doors for thousands of people with disabilities, and technology is helping turn their dreams into accomplishments. Today, computers are “reading” documents and other written sources of information for people who are visually impaired. Video phones and text messaging are assisting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing enabling them to communicate with each other and the hearing world. Smart phones and iPads are taking this technology out on the road and giving a voice to young Marylanders like Sharia, a Columbia resident recently profiled by CNN.

Together, we’re working to bring this technology to Marylanders with disabilities. Through the Maryland Technology Assistance Loan Program, we have approved more than $9 million in loans to help nearly 900 Marylanders find and purchase assistive technology devices. The WorkABILITY Loan Program has approved 73 loans for more than $900,000 to help Marylanders overcome barriers to employment and take advantage of home-based employment opportunities.

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