Senate Unanimously Recognizes National Assistive Technology Awareness Day

On April 22, 2026, the United States Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution designating the day as National Assistive Technology Awareness Day. Introduced by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Senator Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), the resolution formally recognizes the essential role assistive technology plays in the lives of older adults, people with disabilities, and their communities.

Why Assistive Technology Matters

From fall detection systems and text-to-speech apps to smart home devices and amplified telephones, assistive technology (AT) is more than a convenience, it’s a lifeline. It helps millions of Americans connect with loved ones, pursue their education, access healthcare, participate in the workforce, and live independently.

In a joint statement, Senators Markey and Cramer emphasized the significance of the designation:

“For millions of older Americans and people with disabilities, assistive technology is an essential lifeline that enables them to connect with friends and family, access education, healthcare, and work, and live independently. We are proud to designate April 22nd as National Assistive Technology Awareness Day and recognize the important role assistive technology plays in our communities, and honor the individuals who work hard to connect people with these essential resources.”

“Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone.”

Advocates across the country have long pushed for greater awareness of and access to assistive technology. Jeannie Krull, Executive Director of the Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP), stated:

“Assistive technology touches every life. At some point, each of us will either rely on it or walk alongside someone who does, yet far too many people still go without. Today reminds us that assistive technology is not a luxury. It is a pathway to independence, opportunity, and dignity. ‘Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone.’ means communities where access is built into every environment and available to every person, in every place, at every stage of life.”

This framing is a powerful reminder that AT isn’t a niche issue. Assistive technology is woven into the fabric of everyday life.

A Broad Coalition of Support

The resolution was endorsed by a wide range of organizations representing the diverse communities that rely on AT, including:

• Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs (ATAP)
• Cure SMA
• Access Ready Inc
• Perkins School for the Blind
• American Printing House for the Blind
• National Disability Rights Network
• United Spinal Association
• National Disability Institute
• TDIforAccess
• National Center for Learning Disabilities
• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association

Together, these organizations represent millions of individuals who benefit daily from assistive technology and millions more who still face barriers to accessing it.

Looking Ahead

National Assistive Technology Awareness Day is an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come and to recommit to the vision of a country where every person, in every place, at every stage of life, can access the tools they need to thrive.

Read the full press release: Senators Markey, Cramer Resolution Recognizing National Assistive Tech Day Unanimously Passes Senate