ACBNY Statement on Federal Randolph-Sheppard Decision (August 5, 2026)
The American Council of the Blind of New York has been closely following recent litigation concerning the Randolph-Sheppard Program and the U.S. Department of Education’s approval of the Army’s requested limitation on the program’s priority for dining facility contracts.
According to a statement issued by the National Federation of the Blind, one of the plaintiffs in the case, a federal district court has granted summary judgment in favor of the plaintiffs and vacated the Department of Education’s decision approving that limitation. We are in the process of obtaining and reviewing the court’s opinion for additional details.
ACBNY is encouraged by this reported outcome, which preserves the long-standing protections and opportunities established under the Randolph-Sheppard Act while the matter proceeds. At the same time, we recognize that this is unlikely to be the final chapter. Additional proceedings, including the possibility of an appeal or further administrative action, remain possible.
State and local leaders within ACBNY have been monitoring this issue throughout the litigation, and we will continue to follow developments closely. As appropriate, we will support efforts that protect opportunities for blind entrepreneurs and uphold the intent of the Randolph-Sheppard Act.
Advocacy is rarely a single event. It requires persistence, partnership, and vigilance. ACBNY remains committed to staying informed, engaging constructively, and keeping our members updated as this matter continues to develop.
Update, August 5, 2026: The American Council of the Blind has issued its own statement applauding the ruling, and has provided a link to the court’s full opinion.