by Erin Olsen
Dana Ard (NFB Idaho President) and Erin Olsen attended Washington Seminar this week where they were able to meet personally with not only the staff but the actual Senators and Representatives of the Idaho legislative delegation.
Thank you to Rep. Mike Simpson, rep. Russ Fulcher, Sen. Jim Risch & Sen. Mike Crapo and their staff for their time, consideration and hospitality.
Three issues, identified by the NFB, were discussed. Naturally, they all related to blindness and included a tax credit for the purchase of accessible technology, and ensuring standards are set for fitness, home medical devices and home appliances to ensure they are accessible for the blind. The third encouraged revision of 100-year-old legislation regarding employment that will allow blind people to participate in gainful employment in 21st century jobs at fair wages.
It was a remarkable day on the Hill, and would like to thank our legislators again for speaking with us, listening to our concerns and being supportive of issues important to blind & visually impaired people who want to remain independent and engaged with our families and in our communities.