We post our bi-weekly bulletin to keep you up to date on disability-related resources, news, and other items of interest. This information is being provided solely for non-commercial, nonprofit educational purposes, including news reporting and research. It is not intended for commercial purposes. Further, we understand that our readers generally read the articles and information online, at the websites provided in the hyperlinks, rather than relying solely on our synopses or copies. We are not responsible for the accessibility or the content of other websites. Please be aware that some links provided are time sensitive, and may become inactive at any time.
We include links to articles, editorials and opinion pieces, press releases, and other materials that represent diverse perspectives. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of any products, services, sources, information, or opinions expressed in these materials.
General News
Are You Feeling the Beat? Quick Resources for American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month, and the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC) gathered together this collection of resources which may help people with disabilities and their families integrate heart-healthy behaviors into their daily lives.
Transportation News
Frequently Asked Questions on Incorporating Accessibility in Transportation Projects
This new resource from the U.S. Department of Transportation is designed to assist potential grantees in preparing strong grant applications for transportation projects that comply with the ADA and incorporate accessible features that benefit all users.
Resources on Rides for Employment for Older Adults and People with Disabilities
This new technical assistance brief from the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) highlights resources and examples of programs that may help start, improve, or expand reliable, accessible, and affordable transportation options to help older adults and people with disabilities obtain or sustain employment or volunteer work activities.
NADTC Learning Short on Microtransit
This new video from the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) will help your organization learn how to develop a microtransit program in your area.
ADA Legal News
DOJ Secures Agreement with Pennsylvania Courts to Resolve Lawsuit Alleging Discrimination Against People with Opioid Use Disorder
The U.S. Department of Justice secured an agreement with the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania (UJS) to resolve allegations that the system violated the ADA by preventing individuals under court supervision from taking lawfully prescribed medication to treat opioid use disorder (OUD).
“All too often, people taking medication to treat their OUD are subjected to discrimination based on unfounded stigma associated with these medications. It is a violation of the ADA to deny someone access to programs and services simply because they are taking medication their doctors have prescribed to get and keep their OUD in remission. My office will hold entities that violate the ADA’s anti-discrimination protections accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
DOJ Secures Agreement with MedStar Health Inc. to Provide People with Disabilities Equal Access to Medical Care
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that it filed a complaint and proposed consent decree in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland to resolve allegations that MedStar Health, Inc. violated the rights of individuals with disabilities by denying access to support persons needed to ensure equitable health care services.
“For some people with disabilities, having a family member, aide or other support person by their side is critical to ensure they have the same access to health care as everyone else,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division.
Health and Wellness News
Assessment of Virginia’s Disability Services System: Geographic Disparities in Healthcare Access
The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities evaluated geographic disparities in access to healthcare, with an emphasis on broadband access and telehealth services. This report summarizes findings and includes recommendations to improve:
- Access to, and affordability of, broadband
- Availability of technology equipment
- Digital literacy
- Education of telehealth providers
Arts and Culture News
“All the Light We Cannot See Star Aria Mia Loberti Strolls Golden Globes Red Carpet with Guide Dog”
This article reports on the first ever appearance of a guide dog on the Golden Globes red carpet.
Training, Events, and Opportunities to Participate
ADAcon 2024 Call for Presentation Proposals: Inclusive Hospitality and Tourism
The Mid-Atlantic ADA Center invites proposals for presentations and workshops at the 2024 conference to be held October 15 – 17, 2024 in Wilmington, Delaware. Proposals are due by February 23, 2024.
Webinar: Sports Make Us More
February 28, 2024
2:00 – 3:00 p.m. Eastern
Move United uses the power of sport to push what’s possible for people with disabilities, confronting ignorance, fueling conversation, and inciting action that leads to a world where everyone’s included. Learn about the many adaptive sports resources and networks available through Move United to make sport for all a reality.
ADA Foundations Web Course in Spanish
The Southeast ADA Regional Center is offering free access to this web course on the core concepts of the ADA and how to think about inclusive solutions for individuals with disabilities in the workplace, state and local programs, and private businesses. The Spanish version of the web course is free for a limited time. The English course is available for a small fee.
Northern Virginia: Agents of Change 2024 Venture Application
The ENDependence Center of Norther Virginia’s Disability Justice Mindful Design Lab, hosted by Circles for Conscious Change, is an 8-month incubator for social change solutions designed and initiated by and for people with disabilities, with a special commitment to BIPOC, immigrant, and LGBTQIA+ people. The application will close on February 19, 2024.
2024 AARP Community Challenge
This program provides small grants to fund quick-action projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages. Projects may focus on improving transportation and mobility options, accessible and affordable housing, public recreation opportunities, and more. Applications are due by March 6, 2024.
Seeking Survey Participants: Perceived Accessibility to Public Transit
This research project seeks public transit riders with disabilities to complete surveys about how they get to and from public transit stops. Researchers hope to learn more about how accessibility impacts first- and last-mile travel to public transit and help develop recommendations for accessible transportation planning.
SCI, TBI, and Burn Information Needs Survey
The Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center (MSKTC) seeks input about information needs of people with spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and burn injury, as well as caregivers, clinicians, or state or federal program administrators. The input provided in the survey will assist researchers in developing information resources related to these types of injuries.
Post-Doctoral Fellowship Opportunities: Health Services and Outcomes
The Advanced Rehabilitation Research Training Program on Employment is accepting applications for two post-doctoral fellowship positions. Both positions are two-year, full-time fellowships that provide an opportunity for individuals who have completed a PhD or other terminal degree to gain experience in health services research broadly, with the goal of preparing for a scholarly career. The program includes developing one or more research projects, developing grant applications, publishing manuscripts, enrolling in coursework, and receiving mentorship.