A variety of resources and organizations exist to help blind and visually-impaired persons understand their rights and enforce laws that protect them against unlawful discrimination.

* The New Mexico White Cane Law, 28-7-1 - 28-7-7 NMSA 1978: Guarantees blind and visually-impaired individuals using a mobility cane or guide dog access to all common carriers (cabs, buses, trolleys, trains, planes, etc.) and places of public accommodation (grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, museums, etc.) without limitations or additional charges.

* Protection and Advocacy: A federally mandated program in each state that provides protection of the rights of persons with disabilities through legally based advocacy. Disability Rights New Mexico (DRNM) is the organization responsible for these services in our state. DRNM also administers the Client Assistance Program (CAP) which seeks to identify, explain, and resolve problems a consumer might be having with his/her rehabilitation program. DRNM can be reached in Albuquerque at 505-256-3100, toll-free 800-432-4682, www.drnm.org.

* Southwest ADA Center: Information on the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, toll-free at 800-949-4232, www.swdbtac.org or adata.org.

* U.S. Department of Justice, Americans With Disabilities Act Information toll-free at 800-514-0301, www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/.

* DisabilityInfo.gov: A new government Website is available to help people with disabilities access information on a wide variety of topics, including civil rights, employment, health, housing, recreation, tax credits and deductions, technology, transportation, and more. www.DisabilityInfo.gov.