I was enormously proud to co-sponsor the ADA when I served in the

 Despite the progress we have made through the years, our work is far

 I also remain committed to ensuring that all children and educators

 As my Administration continues its work to address the COVID-19

 As we celebrate the legacy of the ADA, let us take this opportunity to

 NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day

                           JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

---------- Forwarded message --------- From: White House Office of Public Engagement <OPE@mail.whitehouse.gov> Date: Wed, Aug 31, 2022 at 10:57 PM Subject: White House Briefing: Release of the American Pandemic Preparedness Plan Annual Report To: <dimitrova.radosveta@gmail.com> [image: Twitter] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=834534a7b4&e=0b74306088> [image: WhiteHouse.gov/ope] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=987a90d15d&e=0b74306088> [image: Twitter] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=c057460017&e=0b74306088> Friends - On September 3, 2021, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and the National Security Council (NSC) released the American Pandemic Preparedness Plan, calling for transformative capabilities to prepare for, and combat, future epidemic and pandemic threats. Key goals focused on transforming our current medical defenses including, vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics, as well as strengthening disease surveillance and health systems, surge capacity, and personal protective equipment (PPE) innovation. On September 1, 2022, the one-year anniversary of the publication of this plan, OSTP is releasing the first American Pandemic Preparedness Plan Annual Report. The report outlines our Nation’s progress towards implementation of relevant capabilities—including advances made by U.S. Government departments and agencies; highlights priority actions for government and the private sector; and identifies science and technology research and innovation opportunities to prepare the Nation for emerging pandemic threats. OSTP will provide a review of this report during a webinar on September 1, 2022 that will engage key stakeholders and highlight the progress that has been made towards achieving our Nation’s pandemic preparedness goals. Speakers will also identify ways to remove existing gaps and barriers and drive innovation for future pandemic readiness. RSVP here to attend: https://www.whitehouse.gov/ostp/events-webinars/ <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=9231cabd08&e=0b74306088> All best, White House Office of Public Engagement *FACT SHEET: The Biden-⁠Harris Administration Marks the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=a205db62e1&e=0b74306088>* Today, on the 32nd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we celebrate the inclusion and access promoted by this landmark civil rights law for disabled Americans. Grounded in four core outcomes of full participation, equal opportunity, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency, the ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in public accommodations, employment, transportation, and community living and provides recourse for people with disabilities who faced discrimination. The nation has made significant progress since the law was signed, but there is more work to do to live up to the promise of the ADA. Today, President Biden signed a proclamation marking the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Vice President Harris is meeting with advocates from the disability community. Vice President Harris and advocates will discuss reproductive rights and the impact the overturning of Roe v. Wade will have on people with disabilities. Over the past year the Biden-Harris Administration has taken additional steps to build on our record of advancing equity for Americans with disabilities. *Expanding Competitive Integrated Employment Opportunities* - People with disabilities experience higher rates of unemployment <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=7997456d2b&e=0b74306088>, they receive only a fraction of the minimum wage or market salary <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=e429055c0a&e=0b74306088> for performing the same work, and many are segregated away from traditional work <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=67d213f765&e=0b74306088>. This month the Departments of Education, Labor, Health and Human Services, and the Social Security Administration will issue a joint memorandum identifying all available resources to help state and local government agencies, employers, and non-profit organizations make it easier for individuals with disabilities to successfully obtain and engage in competitive integrated employment. The guidance will encourage these entities to, where possible, mix and match resources such as funding sources, staff supports, and equipment from different agencies. - Section 511 of the Rehabilitation Act <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=38794cfc19&e=0b74306088> and Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=5d3f0980a1&e=0b74306088> limit employers’ ability to pay less than minimum wages to workers with disabilities. To help disabled workers understand their rights under federal law and to ensure employers comply with those requirements and do not discriminate, the Department of Labor published a Field Assistance Bulletin <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=3f473f1aee&e=0b74306088> in June 2022 on when the Department of Labor can—and will—enforce these laws against employers. *Ensuring Access to Educational Programs and Supportive Services* - The American Rescue Plan (ARP) provided more than $3 billion to fund the Department of Education’s Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) formula grants <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=d71d7daa80&e=0b74306088> so that all 50 states, Tribes, and territories could help more children with disabilities recover from the pandemic and succeed in the classroom. In addition, through the FY22 Omnibus, President Biden secured an additional $14.5 billion to support the education of students with disabilities, including $13.3 billion for Part B grants to states to support school-aged children with disabilities and $905 million for grants to support early childhood intervention services. - *Expanded school-based health services.* Funding from the ARP is increasing student access to school-based health services, including mental health services. To date, the number of school social workers has increased by 53% and the number of counselors by 18% since the years before the pandemic. In addition, to ensure young people with disabilities, including those with developmental delays, receive the supportive services they need, the Departments of Education and Health and Human Services issued joint recommendations <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=afd68bf859&e=0b74306088> in June 2022 for improving collaboration and coordination between education and public health officials to meet the socio-emotional development and mental health needs of young children, as well as the needs of their families, from the prenatal period through age 5. - *Helped schools fulfill their responsibility to meet the needs of students with disabilities. *The Department of Education released two guidance documents <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=59fc8d6615&e=0b74306088> and a resource guide <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=369a78f4ca&e=0b74306088> on how to avoid discriminatory school discipline on students with disabilities. *Securing Access to High-Quality, Affordable Health Care* - *Improved Equitable Access to Health Care.* The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) invested $150 million in ARP funding in disability and aging networks to expand the capacity of state and local public health systems to meet the needs of people with disabilities and older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. HHS deployed innovative approaches <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=eb099e7134&e=0b74306088> to help people with disabilities and older adults get their COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, such as in-home options, accessible vaccination sites, transportation supports, and mobile vaccination units. The Health Resources and Services Administration has distributed more than six million N95 masks and nearly 7 million at-home self-test kits, of which 31% were given to older adults and/or individuals with disabilities. In June 2022, the Administration launched an initiative <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=05ecbb9258&e=0b74306088> to provide more than 2 million free accessible at-home COVID-19 tests nationwide for people who are blind or have low vision. - *Increased Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Funding.* To ensure people with disabilities receive the care they need, President Biden’s ARP temporarily increased Medicaid funding for home and community-based services (HCBS). Every state elected to participate in this program and has submitted a detailed plan for how they will use these funds. The administration estimates that this change will ultimately result in $25 billion in increased funding, allowing states to develop innovative ways to address existing HCBS workforce and structural issues <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=38d7264fdb&e=0b74306088>, expand the capacity of critical services, and begin to meet the needs of people with disabilities, family caregivers, and providers. In June 2022, the Department of Health and Human Services notified states <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=3c965ac060&e=0b74306088> that they now have an additional year — through March 31, 2025 — to use funding made available by the ARP. - *Strengthening the Home Care Workforce.* One in eight Medicaid enrollees (or about 11 million Americans) is an individual with disabilities. In order to live independently, many people with disabilities require home care. During the pandemic, 38 states reported that at least one Medicaid home care provider permanently closed during the pandemic, hindering people with disabilities from accessing services they need to live independently. This fall, HHS, in collaboration with the Department of Labor, will launch a technical assistance center to help states and communities leverage existing federal funding opportunities to increase the number of home care workers. - *Combatting Long COVID.* In April 2022, the President issued a Memorandum <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=0f3c70b614&e=0b74306088> directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to coordinate a new whole-of-government approach to prevent, detect, and treat Long COVID. HHS will produce two reports as a result: one that provides the first-ever interagency national research action plan on Long COVID; and a second that outlines services and supports across federal agencies to assist people experiencing Long COVID, individuals who are dealing with a COVID-related loss, and people who are experiencing mental health and substance use issues related to the pandemic. *Expanding Access to Affordable Housing, Transportation, and Broadband* - *Investing in accessible transportation. *The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) provides funds to improve accessibility for all riders on U.S. rail systems. Today, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) is announcing the first $343 million of $1.75 billion that will be awarded to transit agencies this year to make it easier for people to get on board at the nation’s oldest rail public transportation systems. The funding will help agencies retrofit subway stations so people who need an elevator, escalator, or ramp – including people who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility – can reliably access the rail systems serving their communities. - *Launched a new Housing and Services Resource Center. *In December 2021, the Departments of Housing and Urban Development and Health and Human Services launched a new joint Housing and Services Resource Center (HSRC) <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=2d9836c30a&e=0b74306088> for people who provide housing resources and homelessness services, behavioral and mental health services, independent living services and other supportive services to help people with disabilities and older adults live independently in the community. - *Expanded Broadband Access.* Sixty-nine percent of people with disabilities who live just above the federal poverty threshold and over 66% of those who live below that threshold do not have internet access in their homes despite the internet being a vital platform for people with disabilities. BIL provides $14.2 billion to develop a robust, longer-term broadband affordability program. The Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=f270b3fb36&e=0b74306088> is providing a discount on broadband services and connected devices to households with incomes at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines ($27,180 for a family of 1). *Ensure Full Inclusion of People with Disabilities in the Federal Government and Enforce the Civil Rights of People with Disabilities* - *Advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in the federal workforce. *Executive Order (EO) 14035 on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) in the Federal Workforce launched a whole-of-government initiative to cultivate a diverse federal workforce and expand its scope to include equity and accessibility. To deliver upon the Administration’s DEIA strategic plan <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=c4f935c859&e=0b74306088>, in March 2022, federal agencies finalized key steps they will take to strengthen their workforce policies, practices, and culture to be more accessible for people with disabilities, such as improving the accessibility of their websites, enhancing technological access and supports for employees with disabilities, and fostering relationships with universities and institutions who work specifically with underserved communities, including people with disabilities. - *Improving Airport Accessibility and Implementing A Historic Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights*. In 2021, the GAO reported <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=b7806983a4&e=0b74306088> that within one single year airline passengers with disabilities lodged 30,000 complaints, citing lack of accessibility at airports and on planes, customer service challenges, and lack of information on disability-related travel concerns. The Biden Administration is addressing these issues in two concrete and immediate ways. First, earlier this month, the FAA announced the first $1 billion <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=97a2826421&e=0b74306088> in competitive airport terminal awards from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Accessibility enhancements were a key feature of terminal project improvements with 73 of the 85 airports’ terminal projects containing an element that provides greater access to individuals with disabilities. Second, the Department of Transportation (DOT), in response to and in collaboration with disabled people, recently developed the Airline Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=ab2a892547&e=0b74306088>. This landmark document will empower air travelers with disabilities to understand and assert their rights by laying out information on seating accommodations, assistance with accessing key functional areas of the terminal, and timely resolution of any disability-related issues through the intervention of a Complaint Resolution Official who should be trained and able to resolve the disability-related issue immediately. In addition, the Bill of Rights reiterates that passengers with disabilities who are not satisfied with air travel services may file a complaint with the airline or DOT for resolution. DOT could impose sanctions and require the airline to take remedial action to prevent future violations. *Protect and Strengthen Economic Security for People with Disabilities* - *Raised Wages for Federal Contractors to $15 per hour. *AbilityOne is a federal procurement program that creates employment opportunities for people who are blind or have other significant disabilities to manufacture products and provide services to the Federal government. Under existing law since 1938, many AbilityOne contractors have been able to pay less than the minimum wage to their workers with disabilities.As a result of President Biden’s Executive Order 13658 <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=51fd61c182&e=0b74306088>, after January 2022, contractors are required to pay a minimum wage of $15 per hour <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=8995a9800e&e=0b74306088> for workers performing work on or in connection with covered federal contracts. In July, AbilityOne published a final rule that codifies the wage protections of the EO and expands those protections to cover product contracts as well. - *Promoting Equitable Access to Unemployment Compensation Programs. *With funding from the American Rescue Plan, the Department of Labor issued guidance to states regarding $260 million <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=c52e084920&e=0b74306088> available in grants for activities that promote equitable access <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=1f856af23e&e=0b74306088> to unemployment insurance systems, including among people with disabilities. To date, the department has announced more than $85 million in awards to 17 states and the District of Columbia, with more awards on the way. *Advance Global Disability Rights* - *Advancing disability-inclusive development and humanitarian action around the world.* As a part of the Global Disability Summit (GDS), USAID committed to concrete actions <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=1955e58a49&e=0b74306088> to support disabled people, including disability inclusion and equity as a cross-cutting requirement of all humanitarian assistance programming, strengthening disability data and evidence for education programming, utilizing best practices and standards, championing disability-inclusive climate action, and supporting disabled persons organizations to respond to the underlying causes of inequality that are worsened by humanitarian emergencies. *Increasing Access to Democracy for Voters with Disabilities.* - Executive Order 14019 on Voting Access <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=a03cde0340&e=0b74306088>, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published a report about the challenges facing voters with disabilities <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=ad5be8a7ec&e=0b74306088>, which addressed feedback provided by stakeholders from disability rights advocates to voting technology vendors. The NIST report identified 24 recommendations to reduce systemic barriers; enhance voter registration; increase the accessibility of the National Mail Voter Registration Form, vote-by-mail, and in-person voting technology; increase polling location accessibility; and improve poll worker training. ### *Readout of Vice President Kamala Harris’s Meeting with Disability Rights Leaders on Reproductive Rights* <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=8717a8e708&e=0b74306088> Today, on the 32nd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a roundtable conversation with disability rights leaders to discuss access to reproductive health care. The meeting built on the Vice President’s engagements on reproductive rights with health care providers; faith leaders; constitutional law, privacy, and technology experts; advocates; and state attorneys general, and it followed recent meetings that the Vice President has convened with state legislators and local leaders in Indianapolis, Indiana; Richmond, Virginia; Charlotte, North Carolina; Atlantic City, New Jersey; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Orlando, Florida. Vice President Harris also convened legislators from Florida, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, and Nebraska in Washington D.C. to discuss the reproductive rights challenges in those states. Vice President Harris discussed how disparities in health care access continue to exist in our country for people with disabilities, and she conveyed that those challenges are being exacerbated following the Supreme Court overturning *Roe v. Wade*. The participants shared stories of challenges that are disproportionately facing people with disabilities as it relates to reproductive health care and abortion access. Vice President Harris emphasized the Administration’s commitment to protecting reproductive rights and shared how the Administration will continue to fight for the bodily autonomy and self-determination of all individuals with disabilities. The participants discussed how there is significant work to be done to fulfill the promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and Vice President Harris thanked them for their leadership in shining a spotlight on the need for equity and access. She spoke about the importance of coalition-building in the movement to protect reproductive care for all people. *Participants:* - Dior Vargas, Disability Rights and Mental Health Advocate - Maria Town, American Association of People with Disabilities - Lydia Brown, President and CEO at Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network - Robin Wilson-Beattie, Disability Sexual and Reproductive Health Educator - Sam Crane, Legal Director at Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=3e79a0bdb0&e=0b74306088> Biden Administration Announces Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding to Make Public Transportation Rail Stations Accessible for All <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=dca0a3327b&e=0b74306088> Thirty-two years after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, U.S. rail systems will get a significant boost in federal funds to improve accessibility for all riders. Thanks to President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announced today it will provide $1.75 billion to make it easier for people to get on board at the nation’s oldest rail public transportation systems, including $343 million in a notice of funding availability now. The funding will help agencies retrofit subway stations so people who need an elevator or ramp – including people who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility – can still reliably access the rail systems serving their communities. "While our country has made enormous progress in the three decades since passing the Americans with Disabilities Act, too many people with disabilities still don't have access to reliable public transportation," said *U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg*. "Using funds from President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we are modernizing some of our oldest public rail stations and ensuring that more Americans count on our transit systems to get where they need to go." The All Stations Accessibility Program <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=63c477ae5b&e=0b74306088> (ASAP) is a new discretionary grant program created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will increase access to our transportation system and advance the Biden-Harris Administration's priorities of promoting equity, addressing the workforce shortage, and boosting economic strength. Funding <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=9b041b099a&e=0b74306088> through ASAP ensures that those relying on rail systems can get to work and school, be less dependent on vehicles, save money, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Inaccessibility is a significant hurdle for riders using rail systems built before 1990, known as legacy systems. Over 900 transit legacy stations are not fully accessible today. ASAP will provide support for transit agencies to repair, improve, modify, retrofit, or relocate infrastructure of stations or facilities for passenger use. Planning activities by transit agencies seeking to improve accessibility also qualify for ASAP funds. Given that many inaccessible rail stations are concentrated in dense urban areas, millions of transit riders across the country are impacted by the lack of infrastructure that supports assisted devices, such as wheelchairs or crutches. Additionally, people experiencing a temporary disability, caregivers, and parents with strollers are adversely impacted by the lack of these accommodations. "Equity depends on accessibility. FTA is committed to ensuring transit systems nationwide are available to people with disabilities and that they are able to use transit systems with the same ease and reliability as any other user," said *FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez*. This program builds on many other critical investments Department of Transportation is making to improve transportation accessibility – including the $1 billion in Airport Terminal Grants <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=d15d9ce2a2&e=0b74306088>, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and announced earlier this month, that are helping to make gates, security, bathrooms and airport drop-offs and pick-ups more accessible, as well as the first ever Passengers with Disabilities Bill of Rights <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=0cabd32f6f&e=0b74306088> which is helping ensure passengers with disabilities have access to safe, fair and accessible air travel. Instructions for applying and eligibility information can be found on FTA's website <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=c1324d004f&e=0b74306088> and in GRANTS.GOV (FTA-2022-009-TPM-ASAP). Complete proposals must be submitted electronically through the GRANTS.GOV "APPLY" function by September 30, 2022. <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=1fb7e5e665&e=0b74306088> [image: Screenshot of tweet from @SecretaryPete] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=93890a18c0&e=0b74306088> *On Anniversary of ADA, USDOT Announces Winners of its First-Ever Inclusive Design Challenge* <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=323ae10527&e=0b74306088> Today, during an event held in recognition of the ADA’s 32nd anniversary, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) will announce the winners of its $5 million Inclusive Design Challenge, a competition focused on innovative designs to enhance mobility options for people with physical, sensory, and cognitive disabilities and to provide equal access to automated vehicles. The first place prize of $1 million was awarded to Purdue University, the second place prize of $700,000 was awarded to AbleLink Smart Living Technologies, and the third place prize of $300,000 was awarded to the University of Maine. The USDOT created the Inclusive Design Challenge to spur innovation in automated vehicle accessibility, encourage collaboration, and explore new designs and technologies. The program draws on the expertise of the disability community, researchers, advocates, and entrepreneurs, tapping into their knowledge and creativity to promote greater access and shape the future of mobility. “Automated vehicles have the revolutionary potential to help seniors and people with disabilities get around more easily—but we must ensure that accessibility is part of the conversation from the very beginning,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “That’s why DOT started the Inclusive Design Challenge, and we’re thrilled to award these inaugural winners funding to help advance their innovative ideas and improve transportation for people with disabilities.” The challenge consisted of two stages – an initial written proposal describing the design solution with ten semifinalists selected; and a second stage for semifinalists to develop prototypes of their concepts. Each of the ten semifinalists received $300,000 and the remaining $2 million was distributed to the three winners. USDOT will continue to engage with the Inclusive Design Challenge participants as they advance their innovations. The winners for the challenge are: *First Place - Purdue University ($1 million)* - *Project:* *Efficient, Accessible and Safe Interaction in a Real Integrated Design Environment for Riders with disabilities (EASI RIDER)* - https://youtu.be/gw0JJhihNE4 <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=3e953fdf8c&e=0b74306088> The team at Purdue University developed an automated vehicle that incorporates universal design features to accommodate people with physical and sensory disabilities. The vehicle features an in-floor ramp design, an automatically deploying “Smart Ramp,” an automated wheelchair docking system, and an on-board user-interface that provides features catering to a wide range of disabilities. The product assists users in locating an automated vehicle, boarding and exiting the vehicle, securing themselves and their mobility aids, and interacting with the vehicle via touch screen and voice control. *Second Place - AbleLink Smart Living Technologies ($700,000)* - *Project:* *WayFinder ADS – Enabling Independent Use of Autonomous Vehicles by Individuals with Cognitive Disabilities and others with Special Needs* - https://youtu.be/jUzbwuOQFw8 <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=c5ec09b73f&e=0b74306088> The AbleLink Smart Living Technologies team developed an accessible travel technology entitled WayFinder ADS System. It is a comprehensive mobile application that connects users with automated vehicles to allow them to travel independently to predetermined destinations. The application includes a cloud program that would allow a family member or travel trainer to track the individual while they are traveling in and interacting with the vehicle. The application also includes educational programs to orient users on the use and function of automated vehicles in a safe, virtual environment. *Third Place - University of Maine ($300,000)* - *Project:* *Autonomous Vehicle Assistant (Ava): Ride-hailing and localization for the future of accessible mobility* - https://youtu.be/syIlBlFSgSo <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=e6f80d5a82&e=0b74306088> The University of Maine’s team developed “Ava,” the Autonomous Vehicle Assistant. It is a smart phone app designed to assist passengers with visual impairments and older adults with trip planning, travelling to pick-up locations, and boarding vehicles. The app allows users to hail an autonomous vehicle and then get to that vehicle while avoiding any obstacles in their path using a visual user interface, natural language text to speech, and augmented reality. With the 32nd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) being recognized this week, the Inclusive Design Challenge is one of the ways the Department of Transportation is committed to advancing equity in transportation, a top priority of the Biden-Harris Administration. The Department also announced the first-ever Bill of Rights for Passengers with Disabilities <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=a470a4a71d&e=0b74306088> earlier this month, as well as a notice of funding opportunity for the All Stations Accessibility Program <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=60794e1166&e=0b74306088> (ASAP) to improve accessibility at transit stations. Proclamation on the Anniversary Of The Americans With Disabilities Act <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=21fa9a319a&e=0b74306088> On July 26, 1990, with the signing into law of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), our Nation created the world’s first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities. Since that time, this landmark legislation has been a driving force in moving America closer to the promise of equal opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for the 61 million individuals with disabilities in our country. The ADA prohibits disability discrimination by State and local governments; provides standards for access to places of public accommodation; protects people with disabilities from discrimination in the workplace; and ensures equal access to health care, social services, transportation, and telecommunications. But even more than that, it enshrines the idea — central to the spirit of our Nation — that all of us are deserving of equal dignity, respect, and opportunity. I was enormously proud to co-sponsor the ADA when I served in the United States Senate, and over the past 32 years, I have seen firsthand how it has improved the lives of countless Americans. Because of the ADA, generations of people with disabilities have grown up with the assurance that they are accorded the same rights and chances as their non-disabled peers — and our communities, our economy, and our country are all stronger as a result. Despite the progress we have made through the years, our work is far from over. Many individuals still face barriers to inclusion and equitable access in our society. That is why advancing equity and equal opportunity for people with disabilities has been a priority of mine since taking office. My Administration has made sure that the Department of Justice has the resources it needs to vigorously enforce the Supreme Court’s decision in *Olmstead v. L.C*. We are working to expand access to the integrated, long-term services and supports that make it possible for disabled individuals to live and thrive in their communities, including significant funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. We are connecting disabled Americans to affordable accessible housing. My Administration is also working to expand opportunities for employment for people with disabilities and providing resources so that employers can make their workplaces more inclusive. I also remain committed to ensuring that all children and educators have the resources they need to thrive in the classroom. That is why the American Rescue Plan provided $3 billion for disabled students to receive equitable, high-quality, and inclusive services. My Administration has also developed guidance to help children with disabilities who were disproportionately impacted by remote learning return to school safely. As my Administration continues its work to address the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize the long-standing health disparities and systemic discrimination faced by the disabled community. The pandemic has had an especially significant impact on the lives and independence of Americans with disabilities and has also been the cause of disability for many individuals. As we celebrate the legacy of the ADA, let us take this opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made and renew our commitment to achieving the ADA’s full promise of advancing disability equity, dignity, access, and inclusion. NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2022, the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I encourage Americans to celebrate the 32nd year of this defining moment in Civil Rights law and the essential contributions of individuals with disabilities for our Nation. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-seventh. JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR. *Tweets from Across the Administration...* [image: Tweet from @WhiteHouse] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=5558d2cbe9&e=0b74306088> <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=ca5b87767f&e=0b74306088> [image: Tweet from @HHSGov] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=3745acb61a&e=0b74306088> [image: Tweet from @SecDebHaaland] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=7dc32c9df6&e=0b74306088> [image: Tweet from @SecMartyWalsh] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=ce90fbd072&e=0b74306088> [image: Tweet from @HUDgov] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=b181303c52&e=0b74306088> [image: Tweet from @usedgov] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=2dc604221a&e=0b74306088> [image: Tweet from @ED_Sped_Rehab] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=ee8454d867&e=0b74306088> [image: Tweet from @SecBecerra] <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=bae3a2e705&e=0b74306088> PRIVACY POLICY <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=efa3c48f46&e=0b74306088> | UNSUBSCRIBE <https://whitehouse.us1.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=b999ee4d97253671de1a2d1fa&id=000cab75a7&e=0b74306088&c=697490dde1> Office of Public Engagement · 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue · Washington, DC 20504-0001 · USA · 202-456-1111