Remarks of Acting Chairwoman Rosenworcel at TDI Conference

I have a deep appreciation for TDI, not just because of your expertise, but because I have a long history of working with you on the issues you care about. Before I came to the Federal Communications Commission, I served as legal counsel to the Senate Commerce Committee. I’m particularly proud to say that one of the highlights of my tenure is that I worked on the 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act. This law is terrific, but I also know we can’t rest on our laurels. Because the events of the past year and a half have changed our relationship with technology. Broadband is no longer nice-to-have. It’s need-to-have for everyone everywhere. But we’re not only working to make sure people have internet access as we try to get beyond the pandemic; the FCC's Disability Advisory Committee has been exploring issues relating to accessibility gaps that have become apparent, including accessible telehealth, availability of telecommunications relay services, IP captioned telephone service, and more. We want to engage with TDI on all of these issues. And if you believe there are other areas under our authority that are of concern I encourage you to let us know. Because when we improve access to communications for millions of individuals with disabilities, we strengthen our economy, our civic life, and our nation.