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H.R.4533 / 111th Congress

Technology Bill of Rights for the Blind Act of 2010

Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection.

Official summary

Version 00 · Introduced in House · Jan 27, 2010

Technology Bill of Rights for the Blind Act of 2010 - Directs the Secretary of Commerce to study and report to Congress on methods by which blind consumers can gain nonvisual access to consumer electronic devices, electronic kiosks, home appliances, or office technology devices. Requires the Secretary to promulgate a minimum nonvisual access standard for each type of covered device that will ensure nonvisual access to such device by blind consumers. Applies a minimum nonvisual access standard to a covered device that is manufactured after the date that is two years after the date on which such standard is promulgated.

Directs the Secretary to establish an Office of Nonvisual Access Compliance to assist the Secretary, educate manufacturers, and conduct investigations.

Imposes civil penalties in certain circumstances.

Allows civil suits by blind consumers against manufacturers for monetary damages and equitable relief. Allows punitive damages for willful or repeated violations.

Prohibits construing this Act to limit the rights of blind or low-vision individuals.

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Who introduced it

Rep. Schakowsky, Janice D. [D-IL-9] · D–IL

Committees

  • Energy and Commerce Committee
41 cosponsorship records, including any withdrawals

Actions

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  1. Referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection.

  2. Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

  3. Introduced in House

  4. Introduced in House

Bill text & related measures

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Related bills identified by Congress.gov

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Source last updated: Aug 14, 2025. Consult Congress.gov for the current record.

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