HHS takes action to ensure equal access for the deaf and hard of hearing

From U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

HHS’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has entered into a settlement agreement with Advanced Dialysis Centers in Randallstown Maryland (“ADC”), to ensure individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing have equal access to programs and activities as required under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

This settlement follows an OCR investigation into a complaint filed by the sister of a deaf patient at ADC who alleged that the facility repeatedly failed to provide adequate sign language interpreter services essential to her brother’s understanding of important medical decisions and treatment options.

Read complete article HERE.

Feds Crack Down On Schools Skirting Disabilities Act

By Michelle Diament from Disability Scoop

Congress awarded students with disabilities extra protections in recent years. Now, the U.S. Department of Education is stepping up its efforts to ensure that schools are following the new rules.

In a letter sent this week to school districts and state education leaders, officials at the Education Department’s Office of Civil Rights took pains to spell out the obligations schools have under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act.

Though the ADA update took effect three years ago, the correspondence suggests that many schools may not be abiding by it. In light of this, federal officials are offering technical guidance and say that they will be upping their enforcement efforts.

“We must continue to take steps to enable every child, regardless of disability, to reach their full potential,” Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. “This guidance reiterates the department’s commitment to ensure that educational opportunity is provided free from disability discrimination.”

Read complete article HERE.