The AT Act was originally passed by Congress in 1998 as an extension of the Technology-Related Assistance Act of 1988 (the “Tech Act”). It was later amended in 2004 and is now referred to as either the “AT Act of 1998, as amended” or the “AT Act of 2004.” MassMATCH is funded through a federal grant authorized by the AT Act of 2004.

The initial Tech Act established AT Programs in every state and U.S. territory to raise awareness about assistive technology and to improve access to AT devices and services for individuals with disabilities. National initiatives were also supported. The AT Act of 1998 and its 2004 amendments continue funding state AT Programs, now called “AT Act Programs.”

The 2004 amendments focus on maintaining or developing state programs that increase access to assistive technology. Although funds do not directly purchase AT devices for individuals, they support programs that help people obtain affordable equipment. These programs include device demonstration programs (allowing individuals to try equipment), AT lending libraries, device reutilization programs (for exchanging, repairing, or recycling equipment), and alternative financing programs (providing low-interest loans).

Additionally, the amendments emphasize training and technical assistance, especially aiding transitions for individuals with disabilities from school to employment (or continued education) or from institutions to community living. They also call for protection and advocacy efforts related to AT, public awareness campaigns, information and referral services, collaboration among public and private entities, and adherence to Section 508 standards (from the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) for accessible electronic and information technology. States are also required to maintain advisory councils that offer consumer-driven input for planning, implementing, and evaluating activities supported by the AT Act grant, including defining measurable goals.

National activities funded by the AT Act of 2004 include a public-awareness toolkit, research and development initiatives, technical assistance and training programs, data collection efforts, and a national public internet site.