Disability Access to Transportation Act

Disability Access to Transportation Act

This bill expands transportation access for individuals with disabilities.

Specifically, the bill requires the Department of Transportation to

• establish a one-stop paratransit pilot program to develop or expand paratransit programs carried out pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) to prevent long wait times between multiple trips that unduly limit an individual's ability to complete essential tasks;
• issue regulations enforcing guidelines that set forth minimum standards for pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way, including shared use paths;
• implement procedures that allow an individual to submit an ADA complaint by phone, by mail-in form, and online;
• require each public transit provider and contractor providing paratransit services to post certain information for how an individual can file a disability-related complaint;
• file yearly reports of accessibility complaints; and
• create an accessibility data pilot program to assist states and metropolitan or rural planning organizations to improve their transportation planning.

Bill 117 HR 1697, also known as the Disability Access to Transportation Act, aims to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities in the transportation sector. The bill focuses on ensuring that public transportation services, such as buses, trains, and subways, are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

The key provisions of the bill include requiring transportation providers to make reasonable modifications to their services to accommodate individuals with disabilities, such as installing ramps or lifts for wheelchair access. The bill also mandates that transportation providers provide training to their staff on how to assist individuals with disabilities and ensure that all vehicles are equipped with the necessary accessibility features.

Additionally, the bill calls for the establishment of a national hotline for individuals to report accessibility issues and file complaints related to transportation services. This hotline would serve as a resource for individuals with disabilities to seek assistance and ensure that their rights are protected. Overall, the Disability Access to Transportation Act seeks to promote equal access to transportation services for individuals with disabilities and improve their overall quality of life. By addressing barriers to accessibility and promoting inclusivity in the transportation sector, this bill aims to create a more equitable and accessible transportation system for all individuals.