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The Federal Quota Program

In 1879, Congress enacted the Federal Act to Promote the Education of the Blind to provide specialized educational materials to students who are blind or visually impaired and is referred to as “The Federal Quota Program.”

A man reading a braille book

An annual registration of eligible students determines a per capita amount of money designated for the purchase of educational materials produced by the American Printing House for the Blind (APH). These funds are credited to Federal Quota accounts which are maintained and administered by APH and its Ex Officio Trustees throughout the country.

Why it’s important.

Students who are blind deserve the same opportunities as their sighted peers, especially when it comes to education. Thanks to US Code, Title 20, Chapter 6, APH is able to produce accessible educational materials to help them on their journey of learning and to prepare them to enter and find success in the workforce.

How the funds are used.

Federal funds are distributed across many programs covering all grade levels, as well as preschool and post-graduate programs. Typically, the funds are used by schools for the blind, rehabilitation programs, multiple disabilities programs, and state departments of education.

Trustee Directory

Each agency for people who are blind that participates in the Federal Quota Program must designate an Ex Officio Trustee of the American Printing House for the Blind. You can search for Ex Officio Trustees with the link below.

Advisory Committees

APH works closely with Ex Officio Trustees through two advisory committees that provide feedback and recommendations on APH’s products and services. This give us valuable information and insight directly from the people who are doing the tough work in the trenches.