Assistive Technology Priorities
The case selection priorities of the PAAT program are as follows:
1) Access to public transportation – including implementation of two final components of the operational improvement fund from the settlement in Access Living v. Chicago Transit Authority.
2) Access to government services.
3) Access to public accommodations, such as commercial or recreational facilities, including communication, physical and website accessibility.
4) Access to educational services (i.e. assistive technology needed by students.)
5) Access to housing involving an assistive technology issue.
6) Access to employment – including employment discrimination involving assistive technology.
7) Access to funding of AT equipment and services through Medicaid, the Illinois Department of Rehabilititation Services, Medicare, private insurance, a PASS administered by the Social Security Administration, or other funding sources.
General Case Acceptance Guidelines for all Programs
All cases need to meet the following general case acceptance guidelines: the case has merit; there is a definable client case objective; the client is willing to participate actively and cooperate in the case resolution process, as appropriate; the client would not likely prevail without assistance from Equip for Equality; an unfavorable outcome would have a significant negative impact on the individual or the disability community; and there are few or no appropriate referrals. However, even if a case meets case priorities criteria and general case acceptance guidelines, a case may not be accepted if current caseloads prevent the case from being accepted or there are not sufficient resources to devote to the matter. Finally, at the discretion of the program, an individual may be provided with advocacy services even if the case does not fall within in the above priorities if it enhances Equip for Equality's services to an un-served or under-served population. At a minimum, all individuals will be provided with information and referral to other sources of assistance.
Litigation Guidelines
For a case to be accepted for litigation (representation in court), consideration should also be given to the following criteria:
- The case resolution is likely to benefit other people with disabilities by changing a policy, practice, law or physical environment.
- The case involves a fundamental right under the state or federal Constitution or statute.
- The case is likely to enhance public understanding and support of the rights of people with disabilities.
