Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends procedures required for an individual to file a lawsuit against a business for noncompliance under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Highlights:

• Prohibits civil actions based on the failure to remove an architectural barrier that impedes access to a public accommodation unless (Sec. 3):

• The aggrieved individual has provided to the owners or operators a written notice specific enough to identify the barrier; and

• The owners or operators fail to provide the aggrieved individual with a written plan for improvements to remove the barrier or fail to remove the barrier within the required timeframe.

• Requires the aggrieved individual’s notice to specify the following (Sec. 3):

• The address of the property where the barrier was located;

• The specific ADA sections alleged to have been violated;

• Whether a request for assistance in removing the barrier was made; and

• Whether the barrier was permanent or temporary.

• Requires the owners or operators to provide the written plan for improvements within 60 days of receiving the aggrieved individual’s notice (Sec. 3).

• Requires the owners or operators to remove the barrier within 60 days of providing the aggrieved individual with the written plan for improvements (Sec. 3).

• Requires the Judicial Conference of the United States to develop steps to resolve accessibility issues before litigation (Sec. 5).

• Requires the Disability Rights Section of the Department of Justice to develop a program that (Sec. 2):

• Educates government entities and property owners on strategies for promoting access to public accommodations for individuals with a disability; and

• Provides guidance on remediation for potential ADA violations.

Full Bill Text

Full Bill Text