SRES-192-119
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S2710; text: CR S2718)
Sponsored by Edward Markey (D-MA)
What it does
This resolution designates April 30, 2025, as "National Assistive Technology Awareness Day." It is a commemorative resolution only and does not create any new law, program, spending, or regulatory requirement. It was passed by the Senate via unanimous consent.
Who benefits
People with disabilities who use assistive technology (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, screen readers, and communication devices) may benefit from increased public awareness. Assistive technology manufacturers, advocacy organizations, and disability rights groups may gain a platform for outreach. Researchers and educators in the assistive technology field may benefit from heightened visibility.
Who is hurt
No group is directly or materially harmed by this resolution. There are no mandates, spending changes, or regulatory burdens created.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that assistive technology is a critical enabler of independence and participation for the more than 61 million Americans living with a disability, yet public awareness of available tools remains low. They contend that a nationally designated awareness day can help connect individuals with life-changing resources, encourage philanthropic and research attention, and signal congressional recognition of the disability community's needs.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that commemorative resolutions consume limited legislative time and floor resources without producing any enforceable policy change, funding, or measurable outcome for people with disabilities. They contend that meaningful support for assistive technology users requires substantive legislation — such as expanded coverage or funding — rather than symbolic designations that carry no legal weight.