1. Type your name*

2. Type your job title

3. Type your organization name

4. Type your email or phone*

*mandatory

5. Please feel free to make changes to the letter below.

6. Click "eMAIL!" and we will send your letter!

TO: Members of the California State Assembly SUBJECT: SB 1608 (CORBETT) DISABLED PERSONS: EQUAL ACCESS RIGHTS: CIVIL ACTIONS - SUPPORT I SUPPORT SB 1608 (Corbett), which is a bipartisan comprehensive reform measure designed to address two important goals: 1) Promoting and increasing compliance with state and federal civil rights laws providing for equal access for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations; and 2) Reducing unwarranted, unnecessary litigation that does not advance the goals of disability access. SB 1608 addresses the important goals of increased disability access compliance and reduced unwarranted litigation through the following major bill provisions: California Disability Access Commission – Creates an independent state commission on disability access in the state of California which will serve as an advisory body and information center on disability access issues. Increased Education and Awareness – Establishes minimum continuing education requirements for building inspectors and architects on disability access laws. Additionally, demands for money issued by attorneys under the disability access laws must be accompanied by an advisory statement available in multiple languages on building owner/tenant obligations under the disability access laws, as well as an explanation of the recipient’s legal options. Promotes Use of State-Certified Disability Access Specialists – Seeks to improve compliance by encouraging existing building owners to voluntarily utilize certified access specialists (CASp), individuals who have passed state-established experience, education, and testing standards in disability access requirements. The CASp program was established by 2003 legislation SB 262 (Kuehl), and the Division of State Architect oversees it. Under, SB 1608 new construction and new tenant improvements impacting access must be inspected by building inspectors who are also CASps. Businesses have both a vested interest and responsibility to comply with disability access laws. At the same time, California’s laws should facilitate and acknowledge the efforts of businesses who desire to comply and take steps accordingly. I believe SB 1608 strikes a fair and reasonable balance.