We are now at the critical point regarding video description. As stated in a previous update, the video description language was added to Senate Bill 2686. Of all the legislation containing video description, this bill has the best chance of moving. It will require at least 60 votes to get this bill to the Senate floor. Right now, we have support from about 53 Senators.
Unfortunately, from discussions with legislators and their staff, ACB has heard statements saying that they haven't received any responses from the disability community at all. We need to make sure that they hear us!
ACB urges you to call or fax your senator and ask him/her to support video description and disability access to VOIP services in S. 2686. Let them know how important this is.
Those of you who attended the Legislative Seminar at Convention will remember our message: Be a PAIN! P is for "Persistent." We need to be persistent. Don't just call or fax once. Keep it up.
A is for "Action." We cannot just talk about the issue. We must take action, and encourage others to do so too!
I is for "Imaginative." Be imaginative. Ask your church or your friends or family to call. This issue affects everyone!
N is for "Not Being Afraid." We can do this together, and together, there is nothing that can stop us.
Again, we urge you to contact your Senator to support S. 2686 and keep contacting him or her until the bill is brought to the floor of the Senate. Ladies and gentlemen, it is now or never.
Day Al-Mohamed
Director of Advocacy and Governmental Affairs
American Council of the Blind
1155 15th St. NW
Washington DC 20005
Tel. 202-467-5081
dalmohamed@acb.org