There are four main laws that provide direction and mandates on assistive technology use for young children with disabilities and their families:
- The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) 2004
- The AT Act (ATA)
- Rehabilitation Act-Section 504
The National Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (NECTAC), providing training and technical assistance to states serving young children with disabilities, provides a thorough review of each law relating to AT and additional legal links for more information. IDEA has required consideration of AT devices and services when developing plans for infants and toddlers under Part C of the Act since 1997. Beginning in 1988, the ATA provided state grants to increase availability and access to AT devices and services. Individuals who do not qualify under the IDEA may be protected under ADA and receive the necessary AT devices and services to improve their daily lives. Under the Rehabilitation Act, programs receiving federal monies cannot discriminate against individuals due to their disability. Accommodations may be required for students to increase their opportunities for participation in the general education setting. For more information, go to: www.nectac.org/topics/atech/laws.asp
For more information contact: Kathleen C. Sadao, Ed.D., Program Specialist, SEEDS-ksadao@scoe.net
