Relay Texas Benefits

Business Opportunities

Relay services increase business opportunities by greatly enhancing accessibility to a largely untapped consumer market, thus increasing potential business revenues and collectable state tax dollars.

Increased Employability

Relay services increase the employability of individuals with disabilities. Previously, many individuals with severe hearing loss and speech impairments could not get certain jobs because they could not use the telephone. Relay services have increased employment and promotional opportunities. By increasing these opportunities, relay services reduce welfare costs and increase the tax base.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Relay services improve the quality of life for all citizens by:

• Ensuring ongoing telephone access for everyone.
• Increasing freedom and independence.
• Increasing privacy.
• Increasing performance and productivity.
• Improving self-image.
• Improving safety and security.

Real-Life Examples of How Relay Services Help People:

Relay Service Increases Freedom...

• Calling about a job advertisement in the paper.
• Ordering a prescription refill at the drugstore.
• Setting up appointments with professional service providers.
• Calling legislators to discuss pending legislation.

Relay Service Increases Privacy...

• Calling the doctor's office for test results.
• Calling a supervisor to discuss personal issues.
• Calling a lawyer to discuss legal matters.

Relay Service Increases Independence...

• Eliminates relying on friends, co-workers, or family, to make calls.
• Students can call other students to go over homework.
• Consumers can make credit card purchases from catalogs, stores, etc.

Relay Service Increases the Desire to Succeed...

• A technician calls the office to check on the availability of parts.
• A contractor calling clients, avoiding wasted trips.
• Professionals conferring with other professionals.

Relay Service is for people who do not have disabilities, too...

• Teachers can advise parents with hearing or speech impairments of their child's performance.
• Family, business associates and friends can keep in contact with individuals with hearing or speech impairments without buying a TTY.
• People are guaranteed ongoing telecommunication access in the event of hearing or speech impairment from aging or injury.`
• Over 15 percent of Relay Texas calls are initiated by hearing persons.

Last Updated: 04/02/09