While our team here at TAI holds the privilege of providing Iowans with specialized telecommunications equipment, these unique needs exist beyond Iowa state borders. With communication needs all across the country, a large variety of states carry their own equipment distribution program. One unifying factor between these programs is TEDPA. 

TEDPA, or the Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program Association, exists to serve as a resource to these programs to promote research development, shared ideas, and enhance program impact. TEDPA defines their roles as follows.  

• “To educate its members about state and federal regulatory issues and to advocate for changes when they seem to be in the interest of improved quality and efficiency of specialized telecommunications equipment and related programs. 

• To share information about program administration, to share cost-effective ideas and techniques, and to promote ideas about community outreach. 

• To provide representation to other professional, technical and consumer organizations desiring input. 

• To actively examine and advance discussion about issues pertaining to specialized telecommunications equipment when appropriate as determined by TEDPA members, prepare items for membership review and submit advisory opinions about those issues. 

• To perform other functions that may be deemed appropriate by TEDPA members. The association is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes within the meaning of section 501 (C) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code TEDPA National Surveys.” 

Alongside this collaborative information development, TEDPA regularly manages national surveys to assist in informing local program management and updating governing authorities on ongoing needs for these programs.  

 TAI regularly collaborates with TEDPA to engage in new community outreach enhancements and attends the regular TEDPA conference that allows for program managers from around the nation to gather and gain education together.  

46 out of 50 state hold a telecommunications equipment distribution program. With each program often requiring proof of residence by state for their applicants, TEDPA serves as a referral resource for your friends or family who may live beyond Iowa state lines. You can learn more about other state programs by visiting TEDPA’s interactive map! 

What does this mean for me?  

Understanding the role of TEDPA and the existence of equipment distribution programs in other states is especially important for individuals who may relocate. Because most state programs require proof of residency, knowing how to connect with the appropriate resources ahead of a move can help avoid service gaps and ensure continued access to essential communication tools. Whether you’re planning a permanent move or supporting a loved one relocating to another state, being aware of TEDPA’s network equips you with the tools to navigate transitions smoothly and maintain uninterrupted communication support. 

TEDPA is also a valuable resource for helping your friends and family outside of Iowa stay connected through their own state’s programs. If you know someone who could benefit from specialized telecommunications equipment—whether they’re Deaf, hard-of-hearing, have speech difficulty, or face other communication challenges—TEDPA makes it easy to locate and refer them to their local equipment distribution program. By using TEDPA’s interactive map, you can quickly find the right contact information and eligibility guidelines for their state, ensuring they get the support they need to stay connected to their communities and loved ones. 

At TAI, our mission extends beyond the borders of Iowa—we’re committed to ensuring that everyone, no matter where they live, has access to the communication tools they need. Through our partnership with TEDPA, we’re able to stay informed, share ideas, and help connect individuals across the country with vital resources in their own communities. Whether you’re an Iowan preparing for a move, or you have friends or family in another state who could benefit from these services, TEDPA serves as a trusted guide to keep everyone connected. Empowering communication is a nationwide effort, and together, we can make sure no one is left behind.