Connecticut Senate Bill SB00389

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Refer: 1/20/11

Caption

An Act Requiring State-owned Buildings To Comply With The Americans With Disabilities Act.

Impact

The implementation of SB00389 will have a significant effect on state laws concerning public infrastructure, specifically in reinforcing the existing federal legislation on disability rights. By aligning state-owned buildings with the ADA’s requirements, this bill not only seeks to improve physical accessibility but also aims to promote a culture of inclusivity within state services. This may influence other regulations regarding building renovations and new constructions, urging compliance earlier than previously mandated by broader regulatory frameworks.

Summary

SB00389 is an act aimed at enhancing the accessibility of state-owned buildings to the public by mandating compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, including all subsequent amendments. The bill emphasizes that not later than July 1, 2018, all state-owned buildings that are open to public access must adhere to the ADA standards. The primary purpose is to ensure inclusivity and ease of access for individuals with disabilities, indicating a strong legislative intent to foster an environment where public facilities are accessible to all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities.

Contention

While the primary goal of SB00389 is to enhance public access, debates may arise regarding the allocation of resources and the financial ramifications associated with retrofitting existing buildings. Questions about the state's budget, potential economic impacts on construction and renovation sectors, and the timeline for compliance are likely to surface during discussions. Stakeholders may present differing views on the urgency of such compliance against economic constraints, debating whether immediate investment in accessibility improvements is feasible or if a phased approach would be more effective.