News
THE JOURNAL TIMES: United Airlines will make changes for people with wheelchairs after a government investigation
By SD Network, 2023-09-28
Following an investigation by the federal government after a complaint by a disability advocate, United Airlines has agreed to improve the experience for passengers who use wheelchairs. The airlines will add a filter tool on their website to help people find flights on which the plane can be more easily accommodate wheelchairs. They also agreed to refund the price difference if a passenger needs to take a more expensive flight to accommodate their wheelchair. These changes are expected to take effect early next year.
WISCONSIN STATE JOURNAL: Staff shortages, sale of nonprofits threaten Wisconsin's Family Care, advocates say
By SD Network, 2023-09-28
Wisconsin disability advocates continue to worry as for-profit companies buy two of the four nonprofit organizations that run Family Care. Advocates are concerned about access and quality of services. The caregiver crisis causes delays and wait lists for care as is.
THE WHITE HOUSE: FACT SHEET: Statement from President Joe Biden on 50th Anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act
By SD Network, 2023-09-27
In late September, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act. It is responsible for banning discrimination on the basis of disability by federally funded entities through Section 504 of the law, and it paved the way for the Americans with Disabilities Act.
THE CONVERSATION: Driverless cars could be a revolution for people with disabilities – but they also have good reason to be worried
By SD Network, 2023-09-27
It's no secret that self-driving vehicles are becoming more and more popular. There are several pros to these vehicles for people with disabilities, but there are also many concerns. This article does a good job of laying out the the benefits and risks of autonomous vehicles.
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH: NIH designates people with disabilities as a population with health disparities
By SD Network, 2023-09-26
The National Institutes of Health recently designated people with disabilities as a population with health disparities. People with disabilities often experience a wide and varying range of health conditions leading to poorer health and shorter lifespan. In addition, discrimination, inequality and exclusionary structural practices, programs and policies inhibit access to timely and comprehensive health care, which further results in poorer health outcomes. People with disabilities who also belong to one or more other populations with health disparities fare even worse.
The National Advisory Council on Minority Health and Health Disparities at the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities rejected a plan earlier this month to designate those with disabilities as a health disparity population. The move came as a blow to advocates who saw the label as a way to help chip away at discrimination experienced regularly in the medical field. Disability advocates are asking the Biden administration to step in after a government advisory panel squashed plans to put more resources toward addressing the persistent disparities people with disabilities face in the healthcare system.
THE WILDERNESS SOCIETY: 7 disability advocates talk about accessibility and ableism outdoors
By SD Network, 2023-09-22
People with disabilities often face obstacles or unwelcoming environments when they try to use outdoor spaces. A growing movement of disability advocates and online communities is actively working to challenge these barriers and promote inclusivity in outdoor recreation.
A farm in Fredonia, Wisconsin hires adults with disabilities. "Farm fellows" run a local farmers market at the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center. They grow, harvest, and package all of the food sold.