5341.01
December 2002

Protection & Advocacy, Inc.

This is a summary of a chapter from PAI’s Accessing Assistive Technology Manual. If you would like more information on this topic, ask us to send you the chapter (or the entire manual).

Assistive Technology Summary

Assistive technology (AT) is any equipment that helps overcome the effects of a disability. Wheelchairs, TDD machines and Braille writers are examples of AT. So is special software, workstation modifications and any high- or low-tech device used because of a disability. AT also includes services directly necessary for using a device including assessment, acquisition, customization, coordination of services and training.

Federal Law

The Assistive Technology Act (ATA) is the federal law that deals with AT. The ATA was passed in 1998 following the end of its predecessor, the Technology Act. The ATA provides funds to states for activities that will increase access to AT for people with disabilities. When they accept federal money, states must undertake the following:

  • Promote coordination between agencies that provide AT;
  • Encourage laws and policies that will lead to more access to AT;
  • Produce information and conduct training about AT and the laws that apply to AT; and
  •  Raise awareness about AT including outreach to rural and underrepresented populations.
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    California

    California has a program for AT. It is called the California Assistive Technology System (CATS). The CATS program has a number of projects aimed at accomplishing the ATA’s goals:

  • A free telephone AT Network that provides information and referral about AT devices and services. (1-800-390-2699 [voice] and 1-800-900-0706 [TDD] or info@atnet.org [e-mail]);
  • Information and materials about AT and training throughout the state; (available through the AT network);
  • Legal information about AT through Protection and Advocacy, Inc.
    (1-800-776-5746 [voice] and 1-800-649-0154 [TTY]; and
  • Loan guarantee programs for purchasing AT and vehicle modification (916-263-8981 [Voice] and 916-263-7477 [TTY]).
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    Advocacy

    Protection and Advocacy, Inc. (PAI) provides advocacy for obtaining AT. PAI can answer your questions about the right to AT under federal and state law. PAI also provides direct assistance for some issues, including:

  • Obtaining augmentative communication devices through Medicare;
  • Obtaining medically necessary equipment through Medi-Cal which is not covered at the present time;
  • Obtaining necessary equipment and related services to foster integration for children receiving special education; and
  • Obtaining AT services and supports to maintain integrated and culturally appropriate living situations.
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    For more information, you can contact the Independent Living AT Section at:

    Department of Rehabilitation
    2000 Evergreen Street
    Sacramento, CA 95815
    (916) 263-8942(Voice)
    (916) 263-8685 (TTY)
    (916) 263-8683 (FAX)
    atinfo@dor.ca.gov (E-Mail)