DOJ Proposes Regulatory Revisions and Issues New ADA Guidance
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has proposed changes to its Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations to implement requirements of the ADA Amendments Act of 2008. The ADA Amendments Act revises the definition of “disability” to more broadly encompass impairments that substantially limit a major life activity.
In a recently published notice, DOJ proposes to add new sections to its regulations issued under titles II and III of the ADA to provide detailed definitions of “disability” and to make corresponding changes in other sections of the regulations. The notice is available for comment until March 31, 2014. Comments can be submitted through the regulations.gov website.
The DOJ has released two new guides in its “ADA Requirements” publication series. “Wheelchairs, Mobility Aids, and Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices” which provides guidance on the ADA regulations regarding the use of wheelchairs and mobility aids, as well as other types of less-traditional powered mobility devices.
“Effective Communication” explains provisions of the DOJ’s regulations relating to communication access for people who have vision, hearing, or speech disabilities. Guidance on other ADA topics is also available on the DOJ’s website.
For further information about the ADA and the AODA in Ontario feel free to contact one of Optimal Performance’s Accessibility experts AODA@optimalperformance.ca 