The NFIB reports that the Department of Justice is planning new rules related to the Americans with Disabilities Act that could have a significant impact on small businesses.
“Existing federal rules that establish what businesses must do to make their buildings and stores accessible under the ADA may change dramatically as the DOJ considers changes to the 1991 rules. While the ADA improved access for many people with disabilities, the law continues to present many challenges for small businesses. And the new requirements proposed by the DOJ could make it even more difficult and expensive for businesses to comply with the ADA.
“One of the biggest changes being considered would require businesses to provide wheelchair access through the employee work areas. This rule would apply to businesses regardless of whether they have an employee that uses a wheelchair. In addition, the new rules would require that fire alarms in work areas have both visible (a flashing light) as well as audible alarms. Other changes in the new rule would require handrails on both sides of ramps and/or stairwells, lower the height to 48 inches from the current 54 inches for reachable items such as light switches, paper towel dispensers, pay telephones, etc., increase the number of accessible van parking spaces required in a parking lot, change requirements for handicapped accessible drinking fountains, and alter the measurements for handicapped accessible restrooms.”
Which small business could be affected by these changes?
“Some of the new requirements will apply to existing businesses and could require retrofitting. The types of businesses potentially affected by the new rules include retail establishments, restaurants, hotels, movies theaters, and any business with employees – disabled or not.”
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