US Attorney General announces proposals for improved accessibility regulations

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Monday, 26 July 2010 15:21pm

US Attorney General Eric Holder announced over the weekend that the US Department of Justice had proposed several improvements in accessibility regulations concerning the Internet, cinemas and emergency calls.

In reference to  changes in technology since the Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, Mr Holder said, ‘Just as these quantum leaps can help all of us, they can also set us back—if regulations are not updated or compliance codes become too confusing to implement.’

The public have been asked to comment on the following:

  • How can websites which provide people with important everyday information, services and programs be made more accessible to people with disabilities?  The Department has indicated that it may comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG 2.0) Level AA.
  • How can new communications technologies be utilised to allow people with disabilities to have direct access to emergency call centres?
  • Whether or not the Department should require cinemas to provide up to 50% of their screenings with closed captions or audio description, especially given that cinemas are converting to digital?

You can read more about the changes at Reuters or at PR Newswire .

 


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