SRES-685-119
Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S1902; text: CR S1938)
Sponsored by Edward Markey (D-MA)
What it does
This resolution designates April 22, 2026 as "National Assistive Technology Awareness Day." It is a commemorative resolution only and does not create any new law, program, funding, 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 of these tools. Assistive technology manufacturers, advocacy organizations, and disability rights groups may gain visibility. Educators, healthcare providers, and employers who work with people with disabilities may also benefit from heightened awareness.
Who is hurt
No group is materially harmed by this resolution. There are no mandates, spending changes, or regulatory burdens created. Competing awareness designations for the same date could be marginally crowded out, but this is a negligible effect.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that assistive technology is a critical but underrecognized tool that enables millions of Americans with disabilities to participate in education, employment, and daily life. They contend that a national awareness day draws public and legislative attention to gaps in access and affordability, potentially laying the groundwork for future policy action and private-sector engagement.
Opponents argue
Opponents argue that commemorative resolutions consume limited legislative time and floor resources without producing any enforceable change in law or policy. They contend that symbolic designations, without accompanying funding or programmatic action, do little to address the concrete barriers — such as cost and insurance coverage gaps — that prevent people with disabilities from accessing assistive technology.