Press Release

Congressman Ami Bera (D-CA) released the following statement on the ADA Education and Reform Act:

"The ADA Education and Reform Act would give small businesses a reasonable time to fix violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Rather than immediately face lawsuits, small business owners should be given time to actually fix what's wrong so they can improve access and better serve all members of our community. Americans with disabilities face real challenges every day, but too often, small businesses are unaware their stores are not up to code. This bill is commonsense legislation that is consistent with the spirit of California state law.

But, in listening to my constituents in Sacramento County, many are concerned that the timeframe for fixing these violations was too long. I agree. In response, I offered an amendment that cuts the time businesses have to fix these violations in half. I am glad my amendment was included, along with other meaningful changes that make the bill better by reducing the burden on individuals and closing potential loopholes. I fully support the ADA and if any business fails to comply with its provisions, there should be consequences."

For more information on this issue you can read news coverage from NPR, The Sacramento Bee, or 60 Minutes.