The Iowa Program for Assistive Technology or IPAT began operation in 1989 with funding from the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988. This legislation, known as the Tech Act, intended that all states and territories would have programs to increase citizens' awareness of and access to AT. In 1994, Congress reauthorized the Act and emphasized that programs should work toward eliminating barriers to AT access for their constituents. The Assistive Technology Act of 1998 continued support for state AT programs, but reduced the amount of funding available after the program's eighth year of operation. 

 

IPAT is now funded through the Rehabilitation Services Administration, U.S. Department of Education which is made possible through the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 as amended in 2004 (ATA 2004). It requires State AT Programs to provide the activities listed on our Services page.

 

IPAT is located at the Center for Disabilities and Development at the University of Iowa in Iowa City.