As used in sections 135.91 to 135.97 of the Revised Code:

(A) "Assistive technology device" means any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of an individual with a disability. "Assistive technology device or devices" includes, but is not limited to, hearing aids, text telephones, computer talking software, braille printers, optical scanners, closed circuit television, manual or motorized wheelchairs, and home and van modifications.

(B) "Disability" has the same meaning as in the "Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990," 104 Stat. 327, 42 U.S.C. 12101.

(C) "Eligible individual with a disability" means any of the following:

(1) An individual with a disability who is a resident of this state and whose independence and quality of life would be improved by an assistive technology device;

(2) An individual with a disability who cannot secure funding through governmental sources, private insurance, or other means to obtain assistive technology devices that will enable that individual to live independently and enhance that individual's employment opportunities;

(3) A parent, custodian, or guardian who applies for a loan as provided in section 135.93 of the Revised Code on behalf of an individual described in division (C)(1) of this section.

(D) "Eligible lending institution" means a financial institution that is eligible to make loans, is a public depository of state funds under section 135.03 of the Revised Code, and agrees to participate in the assistive technology device linked deposit program.

(E) "Assistive technology device linked deposit" means a certificate of deposit placed by the treasurer of state with an eligible lending institution at up to three per cent below current market rates, as determined and calculated by the treasurer of state, provided the institution agrees to lend the value of the deposit, according to the deposit agreement required by section 135.92 of the Revised Code, to eligible individuals with disabilities at an interest rate of three per cent below the present borrowing rate applicable to each individual with a disability at the time of the deposit of state funds in the institution.

Effective Date: 09-29-1999.