Blind Persons' Rights Act

The Blind Persons' Rights Act, now enforceable by law, recognizes the rights of Albertans who are blind and use guide dogs. This recognition ensures blind Albertans are given equal opportunities and access to public services and facilities.

The act includes higher fines for violations, which range from $250 for falsely using a white cane to $3,000 for discrimination against a guide dog team. It also includes:

• a definition of blindness (as determined by the medical profession),
• an identification card for guide dog teams, and
• clear qualifications for guide dog training facilities.

Identification cards for guide dog teams are voluntary but are available to guide dog users as proof that the team meets standards outlined in the act.

To be a qualified guide dog in Alberta, the dog must be trained in a school that meets the qualifications of the International Guide Dog Federation.

For more information, please see the News Release and Backgrounder.

Important links:

•  Application for identification card for guide dog teams
• Blind Persons' Rights Act
• Blind Persons' Rights Act:  audio version (MP3 format)
• List of qualified guide dog training facilities
• International Guide Dog Federation
• History of Blind Persons' Rights Act
• To download an accessible version of Adobe Acrobat, to make it easier to access pdf files, visit  http://www.adobe.com/enterprise/accessibility/main.html.

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