(SACRAMENTO) – A bill by Assemblymember Timothy S. Grayson (D-Concord) aimed at improving compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) passed the State Assembly today with bipartisan support.
Grayson’s legislation, Assembly Bill 3002, requires local government agencies that issue building permits to provide helpful resources for business owners, including information about ADA and related regulations that guarantee equal access for people with disabilities. This information would be attached directly to the application for a building permit.
“Too often, small business owners, most with limited resources, are unaware of the intricacies of these accessibility laws when constructing or modifying their public facilities,” said Assemblymember Grayson. “The goal is to get this information into the hands of business owners early in their planning process before a shovel hits the ground. With better guidance from the moment they apply for permits, businesses can get it right the first time and make sure their facilities are accessible and avoid lengthy litigation and expensive modifications.”
The notices required by AB 3002 will also include information on where to find Certified Access Specialists who can inspect buildings and sites for compliance with applicable state and federal accessibility standards.
“AB 3002 will help educate business owners about their responsibilities under state and federal construction-related accessibility laws, as well as link them to important resources to comply with the law and plan for future improvements and modifications to their facilities,” said Ronald Fong, President and CEO of the California Grocers Association.
AB 3002 is also supported by Disability Rights California and the California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform. The bill proceeds to the Senate for further consideration.
Tim Grayson represents the 14th Assembly District that includes the communities of Benicia, Concord, Clayton, Martinez, Pleasant Hill, Vallejo, Pittsburg and Walnut Creek. For more information please visit the Assemblymember’s website, www.assembly.ca.gov/a14.