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ACB Recognizes the 80th Anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Each October, the American Council of the Blind (ACB) joins the nation in celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and the valuable contributions of employees with disabilities, including people who are blind or have low vision. This year marks the 80th anniversary of NDEAM, a milestone in recognizing the importance of disability inclusion in America’s workplaces and economy.

Lawsuit Against Uber

On Tuesday, September 30, Claire Stanley and Melanie Brunson from GDUI had the opportunity to speak with an attorney from the U.S. Department of Justice about the Uber lawsuit. They were given basic information regarding the lawsuit and important upcoming dates. Uber is required to respond to the court by November 17. The court in Northern California generally requires a first attempt of dispute resolution, which is likely to take a few months. However, the potential government shutdown could impact these timelines.

Tell Congress to Pass The Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act

We now have a campaign link to tell Congress to pass the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act. We were all excited when Congress reintroduced H.R.3417. Lets now use our voices to tell Congress to pass the bill. Please use the link below to reach out to our representatives.

https://speak4.app/lp/0801fs6x/?ts=1758572774

Accessible Paper Currency

On September 15, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) submitted its required semi-annual status report to the court. This requirement follows the 2008 court ruling that will require the BEP to make paper currency accessible for people who are blind. The report explains that the BEP is on track to produce $10 bills with the raised tactile feature in 2026. ACB is excited and anxious to see this development in the next calendar year.

Challenges to 504 Standards are Delayed

The U.S. Department of Energy has once again extended the implementation of an earlier proposed Direct Final Rule (DFR) for an additional 90 days. ACB submitted comments to the Department on the DFR back in July. The DFR wants to dramatically impact the regulations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act; builders would not be held to the same standards to make structures accessible for people with disabilities.