Obama signs Video Accessibility Act

WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (UPI) -- U.S. President Obama Friday signed the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010, setting new accessibility standards for technology.

The act will "better ensure full participation in our democracy and our economy for Americans with disabilities," Obama said during a signing ceremony in the East Room of the White House.

"The 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act will make it easier for people who are deaf, blind or live with a visual impairment to do what many of us take for granted -- from navigating a TV or DVD menu to sending an e-mail on a smart phone. It sets new standards so that Americans with disabilities can take advantage of the technology our economy depends on."

Obama thanked Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski and several members of Congress for their work on the legislation, counting their efforts as part of the broader victory "won by countless Americans who refused to accept the world as it is, and against great odds, waged quiet struggles and grassroots crusades until finally change was won."

"Americans with disabilities are Americans first and foremost, and like all Americans are entitled to not only full participation in our society, but also full opportunity in our society," Obama said, adding that he signed an executive order "establishing the federal government as a model employer of Americans with disabilities."