Hawaii Senate Bill SCR190

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Health To Prohibit Discriminatory Practices Denying A Person With A Disability Full And Equal Enjoyment Of Information Related To Their Services, Facilities, Privileges, Advantages, Or Accommodations Using Information Technology Intended For Use By The General Public.

Impact

The resolution underscores the importance of ensuring that all citizens, including those with disabilities, have equal access to information technology platforms that are vital for engagement with public services. It seeks to enhance existing state and federal laws designed to prevent discrimination in public accommodations by clarifying and affirming accessibility requirements specific to electronic access. If enacted, this could lead to more robust compliance measures for web accessibility in Hawaii, requiring public accommodation services to make necessary adjustments to their digital offerings.

Summary

SCR190, a Senate Concurrent Resolution, calls upon the Hawaii Department of Health to prohibit discriminatory practices that restrict individuals with disabilities from fully and equally enjoying information related to services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations provided through information technology intended for public use. This resolution highlights the urgent need to address the accessibility of public accommodation services in the digital age, particularly as many essential services are increasingly offered through websites and mobile applications.

Contention

While the bill represents a proactive approach to ensuring equal access for people with disabilities, it may spark discussions regarding the balance between compliance costs for businesses and the necessity of accessibility standards. Advocates for individuals with disabilities are likely to support SCR190, viewing it as a critical step toward breaking down digital barriers. However, there may be concerns from businesses about the financial and logistical implications of swiftly following through with mandated changes to existing digital infrastructures.