This year, efforts to strengthen the state law protecting disability rights had only limited success. dLCV has been working to ensure that the Virginians with Disabilities Act is as strong or stronger than the federal Americans with Disabilities Act. This year, the legislature took only one small step towards that goal.
HB 1800 (Cohen) – Added “public playgrounds” to the list of public places covered by the Virginians with Disabilities act. The VDA states that someone with a disability has same rights as other persons to the full and free use of many public places. This new legislation makes clear that public places includes public playgrounds. The bill was approved by both the House and the Senate. It will soon be sent to the Governor, who may sign it, amend it, or veto it.
HB 1680 (Cohen) would have included “websites” in the definition of “place of public accommodation.” The VDA requires that a place of public accommodation must remove barriers to access when the removal is readily achievable. Although this is already required by federal law, the state-level protections bill was opposed by banks and credit unions and other commercial enterprises. The House Committee on General Laws tabled the bill, but agreed to ask the Information Technology Advisory Council to consider the issue for future legislation.
dLCV seeks to advance independence, choice and self-determination; protect legal, human and civil rights; and eliminate abuse, neglect and discrimination of people with disabilities. We do this through zealous and uncompromising legal advocacy and representation. We are available to educate policy makers about the potential impact of legislative proposals.