Search Results for keywords:"accessibility"

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a final rule establishing new procedures for the issuance of guidance documents to ensure compliance with Executive Order 13891. This rule requires that DOE guidance documents clearly state they are non-binding and do not impose any legal obligations; they serve merely to clarify existing laws. Additionally, the DOE has set up a process allowing the public to petition for the modification or withdrawal of these documents. The rule aims to enhance transparency and allow for public feedback on significant guidance documents through a dedicated online portal.

The Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) has issued a final rule establishing procedures for creating guidance documents per Executive Order 13891. This rule mandates how CEQ will define, develop, and issue these documents, ensuring they are accessible to the public through an online database. It allows the public to request changes to these documents and specifies the process for significant guidance documents needing public comment. The rule underscores CEQ's internal practices without imposing new obligations on the public or other governmental bodies.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is proposing new rules to improve accessibility for video conferencing services, focusing on features such as text-to-speech and automatic sign-language interpretation. They are seeking input on how these services can better support individuals with disabilities, including those who are blind, have low vision, or have cognitive or mobility disabilities. The FCC also wants to know if the telecommunications relay services (TRS) Fund should support team interpreting for video conferences. They are considering how to integrate TRS effectively with video conferencing platforms to ensure seamless communication for everyone involved.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced the compliance date for a rule requiring manufacturers of certain video devices and services to make closed captioning settings accessible for those who are deaf or hard of hearing. The compliance date for this requirement is set for August 17, 2026. This rule aligns with the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010, ensuring that video programming with captions is fully accessible, especially for devices with next-generation operating systems. The rule change was confirmed after the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the related information collection requirements.

The proclamation by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. marks December 3, 2024, as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. It highlights the contributions of over one billion disabled people worldwide and reaffirms the commitment to treating them with dignity and providing opportunities for their full potential. The administration's efforts include strengthening home-based services, making transit systems more accessible, enhancing web accessibility, and proposing to end subminimum wages for workers with disabilities. The document also emphasizes international collaboration in advancing the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities.

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is organizing an Anti-Piracy Symposium as part of their efforts to improve intellectual property enforcement and curb intellectual property crime. This event will take place on January 23, 2025, both in person and virtually, at the USPTO in Alexandria, Virginia. The symposium will cover topics like recent developments in copyright law, tools for tackling copyright piracy, and updates on international copyright piracy issues. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss the impact of piracy on creative industries and explore potential solutions.