Connecticut House Bill HB05541

Connecticut 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/16
• Refer: 3/2/16

Caption

An Act Concerning Incentives For Businesses That Exceed Accessibility Requirements Under The Americans With Disabilities Act.

Impact

The proposed pilot program is intended not only to enhance accessibility but also to promote better compliance with the ADA standards among businesses in the state. By encouraging businesses to exceed the baseline requirements, the bill aims to foster an environment in which accessibility becomes a priority in community planning and business operations. If implemented effectively, this could lead to a noticeable improvement in the availability of facilities that cater to individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and equity in public spaces.

Summary

House Bill 05541 is designed to create a pilot program to incentivize privately owned businesses in Connecticut to exceed the accessibility standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This includes providing financial or other incentives for businesses to implement upgrades to their facilities, such as installing automatically activated doors to improve access for individuals with physical disabilities. The Department of Public Health will oversee the program, evaluating businesses based on specific criteria established by the Commissioner of Public Health.

Contention

While the bill seeks to achieve positive outcomes for disability access, it may also raise some points of contention regarding the costs associated with making such upgrades. Critics may debate the financial implications for small businesses that might find it challenging to afford additional modifications beyond the existing ADA requirements. Establishing a well-defined incentive structure will be crucial for broader support of the program, as businesses must see tangible benefits to participate. Furthermore, clear guidelines and transparency in the evaluation process will be necessary to maintain trust among participants and stakeholders.