ADA HEADLINER - January 2012
Register Today for the 2012 National ADA Symposium
offered in two locations:
- Orlando, Florida from March 12-14
- Indianapolis, Indiana from May 30-June 1
Southeast ADA Center
– New Name, New Logo, New Website — ADAsoutheast.org.
SPOTLIGHT OF THE MONTH
Now is the time to update your training on the Americans with Disabilities Act!
The updated 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Title II Regulations become fully effective on March 15, 2012. These updates, in conjunction with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), directly affect all businesses, local governments, and covered employers. Now is the time to get training on these newest standards and regulations, and learn how the changes affect you, your business and your community.
Attend the 2012 National ADA Symposium, offered in two locations:
Visit
ADAsymposium.org to learn more and to register today.
Southeast ADA Center – New Name, New Logo, New Website — ADAsoutheast.org!
After 20 years, we thought it was time for change! The Southeast DBTAC – your friendly, regional resource for confidential information and technical assistance about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – is now known as Southeast ADA Center.
Our new name and new logo design clearly identify us as part of the ADA National Network of 10 regional ADA Centers across the United States. The Southeast ADA Center has also taken this rebranding opportunity to update our website with a new look, feel and navigation system. All of the information from the past 20 years is still available through the site; we've just changed the way we present it.
We've also changed our website address (our URL). You can now find us at ADAsoutheast.org , but if you go to the web address for our former site, it will redirect you automatically to our new home on the web.
If you want to provide feedback on the new logo and new web design, or if you have questions about the ADA, please contact us at: adasoutheast@law.syr.edu or 1-800-949-4232 (Voice/TTY).
NEWS
National News
The Supreme Court's holding in Hosanna-Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church and School v. Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) represents the first time that the Court has formally recognized a “ministerial exception” to claims brought under the Americans with Disabilities Act (although lower courts had previously recognized the exception). Two major clarifications of law emerged from the Supreme Court's ruling: (1) firing decisions made by religious entities need not be made for “religious reasons” in order for the ministerial exception to apply; and (2) the exception constitutes an affirmative defense that must be raised by a defendant in an employment discrimination complaint. (January 11, 2012)
This executive order mandates executive departments and agencies improve their efforts to employ workers with disabilities through increased recruitment, hiring, and retention. (Note: See also Training Events & Tools in this newsletter for information on the Federal Disability Employment Across America webinar series.)
Source: Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
A notice was issued on January 3, 2012, by the Employment and Training Administration and the Office of Disability Employment Policy to provide successful strategies to the public workforce system for connecting individuals with disabilities with transportation services to jobs and training and to help businesses access a diverse workforce.
For the sixth straight year, charges of job bias based on disability increased in 2011, according to new data from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Job seekers saw a boost in hiring in December, but people with disabilities did not appear to be included.
Source: Disability Scoop
The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a Dear Colleague letter concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (Amendments Act). The letter and accompanying Frequently Asked Questions document (FAQ) provide additional guidance on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) in elementary and secondary schools, given the changes to those laws made by the Amendments Act.
A 13-year-old Pennsylvania boy is suing a private residential school for discrimination after it refused to admit him because he has HIV, his attorneys said.
Source: CNN.com
The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) has launched a Public Service Announcement (PSA) in its new campaign to stop the bullying of students with disabilities in schools. Watch the anti-bullying PSA “30 Seconds” [YouTube video] at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-1yVFH3gn8&feature=player_embedded
Source: American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
This report reviews states' bullying laws and model bullying policies and school districts' bullying policies - Abstract [Word, 55 KB].
Source: U.S. Department of Education
Until the past decade, college wasn't much of an option for students who have significant intellectual impairments.
Source: Education Week
Partnership supports executive order on increasing federal hiring of individuals with disabilities.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says Mayor Michael Bloomberg's outer-borough taxi bill violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and would therefore not pass muster with the courts.
Source: Capital New York
In what is being hailed as a victory, a federal judge said Friday that the city of Manhattan must provide “meaningful” access to cabs for [persons with disabilities] and ruled that until a plan to do so is developed, all new medallions must be for wheelchair accessible cabs.
Source: DNA Info.com, NY
Disability activists in New York City push for wheelchair-accessible taxis and liveries based upon universal design principles.
Source: MarketWatch (press release)
Southeast ADA Center News
Mentors with disabilities share their professional and personal successes with children from Nesbit Elementary School in Gwinnett County, GA. The “I Have a Dream: Creating Your Life Portfolio” program is part of a new disability mentoring day and career expo pilot program created by the Southeast ADA Center - a project of the Burton Blatt Institute at Syracuse University - designed to break down barriers and introduce students with and without disabilities to successful individuals with disabilities from the community. Learn More: dreams4mylife.org
Pamela Williamson, Project Director of the Southeast ADA Center, is featured in an “At Your Service” radio broadcast from the Georgia Radio Reading Service (GARRS), talking about the work of the Southeast ADA Center (formerly Southeast DBTAC) and the Burton Blatt Institute (BBI) at Syracuse University.
The Southeast ADA Center has a Facebook page. Be sure to visit it regularly to find out what we are doing.
Regional News Around the Southeast Region
Statewide, 86 percent of charter schools do not have any students classified as severely disabled. That's despite state and federal laws that require charter schools to give equal access to these students.
Source: National Public Radio (NPR)
State education officials say no school is required to take every student with every disability. But lawyers are divided on whether charter schools can legally turn kids away.
| Related: School Board Member Says Her Special Needs Daughter Was Forced To Leave A Charter School.
Source: WUSF 89.7 News, FL
In an effort to ensure those with disabilities are not denied access to treatment in and around their homes, state Representative Richard Henderson is pre-filing legislation that would call on neighborhood associations across Kentucky to comply with the ADA.
Source: Surf KY News, KY
A custom-made playhouse for a young boy with Cerebral Palsy has become the cause of a big debate in one Lexington, Kentucky, neighborhood. Note: There are several updates to this story: Cooper's Playhouse Fight Goes National.
Source: Lex18.com, KY
Pontotoc, Mississippi, building inspector Terry Williamson said steps are being taken to ensure the city is complaint with the ADA.
Source: Daily Journal.com, MS
A member of Starkville's Commission on Disability said the city's efforts to create more accessibility for residents have grown each year since the commission began advising city leaders.
Source: The Commercial Dispatch, MS
Two Florida residents are suing dozens of restaurants, department stores and shopping centers across eastern North Carolina, alleging they were endangered by violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Source: Triangle Business Journal, NC
The Georgia Radio Reading Service (GaRRS) has produced two radio broadcasts — “At Your Service” and “Be Prepared” which are now available on the Georgia State ADA Coordinator website in both MP3 and Microsoft Word transcription formats. The broadcasts in the series are also available to download.
- Be Prepared Radio Broadcast - a short public service announcement program featuring emergency preparedness tips and information for individuals with disabilities.
- At Your Service Radio Broadcast - a 28-minute program featuring agencies that provide services and information for people with disabilities.
Sources: State of Georgia ADA Coordinator Office, Georgia Radio Reading Service (GaRRS)
Public Comment, Input & NPRM
NCWD/Youth is conducting an online survey about the Guideposts for Success, a national transition framework that identifies what all youth need for successful transition to adulthood.
Source: Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
Please complete this short survey and help Easter Seals Project ACTION (ESPA) create resources and training events to meet the needs of transportation providers and the disability community.
Source: Easter Seals Project ACTION
Technology Access Highlights
This video/audio clip (open captions) from STAGETEXT demonstrates how frustrating listening to dialogue can be for people with a hearing loss and what a help captioning can be.
This STAGETEXT video with open captions (6:24 minutes) shows how museums and galleries can offer real-time speech-to-text transcription (CART) for public talks and lectures.
On January 13, 2012, the Federal Communications Commission released a Report and Order adopting rules to implement certain closed captioning provisions of the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA).
Amanda Mooneyham, a medical student with a 90 decibel hearing loss in both ears,uses technology to learn surgery techniques at medical school.
As part of a partnership between the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) and ODEP, ATIA has provided a report on action items and policy issues that should be considered to advance accessible workplace technology.
Source: Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA)
SeeClickFix allows anyone to report and track non-emergency issues anywhere in the world via the internet. See a non-emergency issue in your neighborhood and file a public report online or via mobile phone. Or learn about specific issues by creating keyword and geography-based “watch areas.”
A new app, Access Together, is designed to help people with disabilities locate accessible restaurants, stores and other venues in their communities. All collected information will be saved and become part of a searchable dataset, a map and open API to be used by people with and without disabilities.
Source: Disability Scoop
Business Connection
What to do if an employee asks for accommodation for a mental condition that qualifies as a disability.
Source: HR.BLR.com
Advice on meeting ADA regulations for workers with mental conditions.
Source: HR.BLR.com
There is usually more than one reasonable accommodation that will suit any given disability.
Source: Business Management Daily
Maxim Healthcare Services has agreed to pay $160,000 to the estate of a Minneapolis nurse who died of cancer, ending a case that highlighted the reach of the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA).
Source: Business Management Daily
If you immediately fire employees who have used up their FMLA leave — without considering whether they may need reasonable ADA accommodations — you may be making a big mistake. (White v. Interstate, No. 11-5063, 6th Cir., 2011)
Source: ?Business Management Daily
When it comes to accommodating disabilities, the process is supposed to be interactive. It's also important to keep excellent records showing employer efforts at accommodation and employees' responses. (Jefferson v. Miller Coors, No. 10-10774, 5th Cir., 2011)
Source: Business Management Daily
The ADA focuses a lot on access for persons with disabilities. It is important to recognize that access means more than wide doorways and elevators; in the computerized workplace, access also includes providing appropriate input systems for computer use.
Source: Tech Republic
USBLN “I Am, I Can, I Do” National Public Education Campaign: First Public Service Announcement (PSA) Now Available Online
The U.S. Business Leadership Network (USBLN) has launched their national public education campaign titled, “I Am, I Can, I Do.” The campaign includes a series of 30 and 60 second Public Service Announcements (PSAs) showcasing people with disabilities who 'Do!' when they aspire to their dream careers.
Press release: DOC: USBLN 'I Am, I Can, I Do' Campaign | PDF: USBLN 'I Am, I Can, I Do' Campaign)
PSA: 'I Am, I Can, I Do' [You Tube, captioned] from the USBLN
An annual four-part webinar series focused on leading practices that advance disability inclusion within business.
Monthly newsletter from the Office of Disability Employment Policy, U.S. Department of Labor. This month's topic is: "Shaping Tomorrow's Workforce – Today."
Source: Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
Presented by the Great Lakes ADA Center and the University of Illinois at Chicago, this free, online workshop provides an enhanced understanding of people with cognitive disabilities and provides tools that can be applied in the workplace when addressing accommodations for people with cognitive disabilities.
Sources: Great Lakes ADA Center and the University of Illinois at Chicago
An illustrated guide to help small businesses understand the new and updated requirements of the revised ADA regulations. (Updated March 16, 2011)
Source: Department of Justice
Technical Assistance
This Guide was developed with input from the disability community. It provides information on five general categories of disabilities: mobility, visual, hearing, speech, and cognitive; and the four elements of emergency evacuation information that occupants need: notification, way finding, use of the way, and assistance. The Guide includes a checklist that building services managers and people with disabilities can use to design a personalized evacuation plan. It also includes a list of government resources and information on the relevant code requirements and ADA criteria.
Source: National Fire Protection Association
The International Code Council and the Florida Building Commission have announced changes to the Florida Building Codes they say will result in safer, sustainable homes and buildings. The updated Florida State Building Codes are mandatory for all new construction or rehabilitation projects with a permit application date of March 15, 2012, or later.
Source: US Glass News Network (USGNN)
The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (EI) has created a new video training program, Enabling Independence: Service for Guests with Disabilities, to show employees how to confidently and respectfully deliver great service to guests with disabilities. The 33-minute DVD training program provides information on new ADA Title III non-discrimination requirements that went into effect in March 2011.
Source: Hospitality Net
Talking with someone with a disability can be intimidating but it doesn't have to be, especially if you use an approach called 'person first.' [Note: The text of this story is also the video transcript.] (Story with video)
Source: WBIR-TV, TN
Ask Project Action
Easter Seals Project Action (ESPA) has created a new section on its website that will provide answers to popular transportation questions. View this month's Ask Project ACTION Frequently Asked Question (and Answer).
ADA Solutions for Every Audience
Did You Know?? The Southeast ADA Center website makes it easier to find ADA Tools & Solutions – Choose the category that best fits who you are or the information you are trying to find. If you need more help, please contact our staff at 1-800-949-4232 [voice/tty] or e-mail ADAsoutheast@law.syr.edu.
LEGAL UPDATES & CASE LAW
Information to Help You Understand New ADA Regulations
This new Department of Justice document is designed to help Title II and Title III entities understand how new requirements for swimming pools, especially existing pools, apply to them.
The Department of Education's (Department) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a Dear Colleague letter concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (Amendments Act). The letter and accompanying Frequently Asked Questions document (FAQ) provide additional guidance on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) in elementary and secondary schools, given the changes to those laws made by the Amendments Act.
This new checklist is based on the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. It updates the original ADA Checklist for Readily Achievable Barrier Removal (revised 1995), which was based on the 1991 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Businesses and non-profit organizations removing barriers before March 15, 2012 have the choice of using either the 1991 Standards or the 2010 Standards. Businesses and non-profit organizations removing barriers on or after March 15, 2012 must use the 2010 Standards. 83 pages
Department of Justice Publications Concerning the 2010 ADA Regulations
- What titles of the ADA are covered by the revised ADA regulations?
- What are some of the key changes in the revised ADA regulations?
The Southeast ADA Center, one of ten regional resources in the ADA National Network, has put together this summary of key changes about the revised and expanded regulations implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
This document contains the following: (1) supplementary information (the preamble to the revised regulation); (2) the Title II regulation updated to reflect the 2010 revisions and the technical corrections (published March 11, 2011) which became effective on March 15, 2011; (3) guidance on the revised regulatory provisions; and (4) guidance on the original 1991 Title II regulation.
This document contains the following: (1) supplementary information (the preamble to the revised regulation); (2) the Title III regulation updated to reflect the 2010 revisions and the technical corrections (published March 11, 2011) which became effective on March 15, 2011; (3) guidance on the revised regulatory provisions; and (4) guidance on the original 1991 Title III regulation.
Compliance with the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design is permitted as of September 15, 2010, but not required until March 15, 2012.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC) final regulations to implement the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) are now available. The Commission has released two Question-and-Answer documents about the regulations to aid the public and employers – including small business – in understanding the law and new regulations. The ADAAA regulations, accompanying Question and Answer documents and a fact sheet are available on the EEOC website.
A new technical assistance document, entitled, “ADA 2010 Revised Requirements: Effective Date, Compliance Date,” and a PDF file - ADA 2010 Revised Requirements has been posted on the Department of Justice ADA Home Page.
The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) announces the availability of Topic Guides on ADA Transportation that brings together the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the U.S. Department of Transportation's ADA regulations, FTA determinations, and operational practices that comply with the ADA. Each Topic Guide is available as a webpage (HTML), a PDF file, and a plain Text file - Topics include:
- Equipment Maintenance
- Stop Announcement and Route Identification
- Eligibility for ADA Paratransit
- Telephone Hold Time in ADA Paratransit
- Origin to Destination Service in ADA Paratransit
- On-Time Performance in ADA Paratransit
- No-Shows in ADA Paratransit
The Topic Guides are funded by the FTA and developed by the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) and TranSystems Corporation.
Source: Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF)
Legal & Enforcement Updates: Disability-Related
The EEOC charged in a lawsuit that Butterball, LLC, a Garner, North Carolina-based turkey processing company, violated federal law by subjecting an employee to a hostile work environment based on the fact that she has Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and firing her because of that disability.
This case was among the EEOC's first lawsuits filed under the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA).
A letter from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) warns that requiring a high-school diploma from a job applicant might infringe on the ADA. | EEOC Informal Opinion Letter
Source: The New American
Being overweight is not necessarily an impairment qualifying as a “disability,” under the ADA. But the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has taken the position that “severe obesity,” defined as body weight more than 100 per cent over the norm, is such an impairment. (EEOC v. Resources for Human Development, 2011 U.S. Dist. LEXIS 140678) (E.D. La. Dec. 6, 2011) (Website registration is required.)
Source: Lexology.com
In a first-of-its-kind class-action case filed in federal court, the Oregon chapter of the United Cerebral Palsy Association and eight individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities claimed that sheltered workshops violate protections against discrimination under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act.
Source: The Nonprofit Quarterly
Source: Mount Airy News, NC
- Hosanna-Tabor v. EEOC (Jan. 12, 2012)
Keyword: Ministerial Exception
- White v. Interstate Distributor Company
Keywords: Essential Job Functions, Modified or Accommodated Positions
- AAPD v. Harris
Keywords: Voting, Effective Communication, Program Access
- MacDonald v. United Parcel Service
Keywords: Definition of Disability, Major Life Activity, Substantially Limited
- Picard v. St. Tammany Parish Hospital
Keywords: Definition of Disability, Interactive Process
- Harrison v. Benchmark Electronics Huntsville, Inc.
Keywords:Medical or Disability-Related Inquiry
- Carmona v. Southwest Airlines Company
Keywords: Discrimination, Definition of Disability, Qualified Individual
- EEOC v. Hosanna-Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church and School
Keywords: Retaliation, Discrimination
- Soliday v. 7-Eleven, Inc.
Keywords: Employment, Legal Concepts
Search ADA Case Law by Topic, Court, and/or Audience and get additional Legal Resources.
Complete the Survey on Legal Briefs from the BBI Legal Team and Southeast ADA Center to help improve the quality and usefulness of our published legal briefs.
Web: ADAsoutheast.org/legalissues.php
The biweekly e-Newsletter is a free publication (subscription required) that summarizes the most current information available about disability law and policy, including events, press releases, court decisions, reports, and academic and news articles.
Source: Law, Health Policy & Disability Center
- January - March, 2011: DOJ Report
- October - December, 2010: DOJ Report
Web: ADAportal.org
Olmstead Decision News
The Justice Department has issued a Findings Letter that concludes that Mississippi is violating the ADA's integration mandate in its provision of services to people with developmental disabilities and mental illness.
A a growing number of Georgians with mental illness or developmental disabilities have been discharged or are at risk of being cut off from a state program that has been a life line for thousands of people for the past 15 years.
Source: Atlanta Journal Constitution, GA
A federal judge struck a blow to advocates for persons who are elderly and disabled, removing class-action status from a lawsuit that had argued Florida illegally forces people into nursing homes when they are capable of living elsewhere.
Source: AARP from: The Associated Press
The Department of Justice has created this technical assistance guide to assist individuals in understanding their rights under Title II of the ADA and its integration mandate, and to assist state and local governments in complying with the ADA.
A new website from the U.S. Department of Justice dedicated to enforcement of the Supreme Court Decision in Olmstead v. L.C. (1999).
This new technical assistance guide is created to assist individuals in understanding their rights and public entities in understanding their obligations under the ADA and Olmstead.(NEW June 22, 2011)
President Obama talks about the 12th anniversary of the Olmstead court decision.
Sue Jamieson is an attorney with the Atlanta Legal Aid Society, Mental Health and Disability Rights Unit. She was the lead attorney in the Supreme Court decision of Olmstead v. L.C. Twelve years later, Sue writes about this historic decision in the White House blog.
TRAINING EVENTS & TOOLS
Webinars, Webcasts & Audio Conferences
The Access Board and ADA National Network partner to conduct this webinar series – Learn about the work of the Access Board, its guidelines and standards, and accessible design through monthly webinars and audio conferences, which also provide an opportunity to earn continuing education credits (CEUs).
Contact for more information:
ADA National Network - Great Lakes ADA Center
Phone: (877) 232-1990 [voice/tty] •
Email: gldbtac@uic.edu
Source: AccessibilityOnline.org
Each session is 90 minutes and held from 2:00-3:30 p.m. (Eastern). All sessions will have a written transcript as well as a digital recording of the session archived on this site. The program is available in three formats:
– Teleconference, Streaming Audio via Internet, Real-time Captioning via Internet.
Contact for more information:
ADA National Network - Great Lakes ADA Center
Phone: (312) 996-1174 [voice/tty] • Email: gldbtac@uic.edu
Source: ADA-audio.org
These webinars will focus on key concepts, strategies and instructional technology that may be used to develop course materials that are universally designed. Universally designed course materials often provide benefits on multiple levels, including accessibility, content retention, varied learning styles, as well as platform and device independent delivery.
All sessions are scheduled on 3rd Thursday of the month from October 20, 2011 through May 5, 2012.
Web: ADAconferences.org/IBHE/
Job Accommodation Network (JAN) Webcasts are available at no cost. JAN Webcasts are available at no cost. All Webcasts begin at 2:00 pm eastern and are 1.5 hours. You must register to attend. One registration is equivalent to one login. All registrations are processed on a first come first serve basis.
Web: askjan.org/webcast/index.htm
JAN Webcasts are available at no cost. All Webcasts begin at 2:00 pm eastern and are 1 hour. You must register to attend. One registration is equivalent to one login. All registrations are processed on a first come first served basis. Topics include: disability etiquette, assistive technology, management techniques, and the latest on accommodations and the employment provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Web: askjan.org/webcast/index.htm
Web: dlrp.org/html/Training/webcasts.html
Each session is 90 minutes and held from 2:00-3:30 p.m.(Eastern). All sessions utilize an online conferencing system.
Web: ADA-audio.org/Webinar/ADALegal
A free online webinar series that explores some of the latest technological trends and their accessibility for people with disabilities. Each session is 60 minutes and held from 2:00-3:00 p.m. (Eastern).
Web: ADA-audio.org/Webinar/AccessibleTechnology
The Office of Personnel Management, in partnership with the Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) and the USDA TARGET Center, has developed this webinar series to assist agencies in implementing Executive Order 13548. Joint Memorandum Outlining Resources for Implementing Executive Order 13548 [PDF, 3 pages]
A four-part webinar series focused on leading practices, practical methods, experience, and success for promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace.
Supported by: The Burton Blatt Institute (BBI) - Southeast in partnership with: ADA National Network; American Association of Peoples with Disabilities (AAPD); Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation – National Employment Team (CSAVR-NET); and US Business Leadership Network (USBLN®).
Web: ADAsoutheast.org/webinars/archives.php
If you are a member of this program, don't forget to check the ADA Coordinators' Training Sources to find opportunities that meet your credit requirements for program completion.
If you are not a member of the program, you can still benefit from the training opportunities listed on the website.
Source: University of Missouri School of Health Professions Disability Studies and Policy Center and the Great Plains ADA Center
The ADA National Network held a FREE seven-session webinar series covering the "Topic Guides on ADA Transportation," which bring together the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) ADA regulations, Federal Transit Administration (FTA) determinations, and best operational practices for ADA compliance, as well as draw information from many other sources.
The Topic Guides are funded by the FTA to provide technical assistance on transportation to transit agencies, riders, and advocates — download the Topic Guides on ADA Transportation that were developed by the Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) and TranSystems Corporation. The webinar series is coordinated by Great Lakes ADA Center and Southwest ADA Center in collaboration with Project Action and DREDF.
Topics - Archives Available:
- Equipment Maintenance (Topic Guide 1)
- Stop Announcements and Route Identification (Topic Guide 2)
- Eligibility for ADA Paratransit (Topic Guide 3)
- Telephone Hold Time in ADA Paratransit (Topic Guide 4)
- Origin to Destination Service in ADA Paratransit (Topic Guide 5)
- On-Time Performance in ADA Paratransit (Topic Guide 6)
- No-Shows in ADA Paratransit (Topic Guide 7)
Web: ADAconferences.org
Source for Guides: dredf.org/ADAtg/index.shtml
Explore the skills, habits, and knowledge required by staff to serve a diverse range of businesses and career seekers, especially persons with disabilities. The archive of
this webinar, including recording, Microsoft Powerpoint, and transcript, are available from NTAR Webinars webpage.
Web: ntarcenter.org/content/webinars
Courses & Tutorials Online/Web-based
The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) announces the first two in a series of fully-accessible training modules. The Modules and supporting documents are in JAN's Multimedia Training Library.
- JAN's Interactive Process
This 23-minute training module, transcript and handout provides a sample step-by-step process that employers can use to help them successfully accommodate applicants or employees.
- JAN's Understanding and Applying the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act and Its Regulations
This 43-minute video provides you with information on the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) and uses real-life examples from the Job Accommodation Network case study library.
Web: askjan.org/training/library.htm
$FREE Webcourses (3) and CEU/CRCC credit offered by ADA National Network
Web: ADAsoutheast.org/training/courses.php
Produced by the New England ADA Center, this free, self-paced web course (available 24/7) provides an overview of disability rights laws. The course takes approximately two hours and includes real life scenarios, quizzes and a final exam.
Web: DisabilityRightsCourse.org
Cost: Free (Registration required).
Presented by the Great Lakes ADA Center and the University of Illinois at Chicago, this online workshop provides an enhanced understanding of people with cognitive disabilities, makes sense of the ADA and legal responsibilities related to people with cognitive disabilities, and provides tools that can be applied in the workplace when addressing accommodations for people with cognitive disabilities.
Web: ADAgreatlakes.org/Presentations/CognitiveDisabilities/slides.asp
An online course developed by the U.S. Department of Justice that explains how the ADA applies to businesses. Putting these lessons into practice will allow you to comply with the ADA and welcome a whole new group of customers to purchase your goods, products, and services.
Web: ADA.gov/reachingout/intro1.htm
Want More Training?
Check out Training & Events Calendar for the most current ADA and disability-related events in the Southeast Region and across the United States.
Policies in Practice Profile: Matthew Staton Discusses His Workplace Accommodations
The Department of Defense Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP) interviewed Matthew Staton, a veteran with a disability, about the workplace accommodations provided by CAP [YouTube, captioned, 3:46 min.] | Visit CAPTEC - CAP You Tube videos [captioned] (22 captioned videos)
The Campaign for Disability Employment launches a Spanish micro website (¿Usted que puede hacer?) and the "Yo Puedo" Public Service Announcement (PSA). Find disability employment related resources in Spanish and watch the "I Can" PSA - "Yo Puedo" - in Spanish. The video (TV) and radio PSAs are available in English and Spanish. Download broadcast quality PSAs for What Can You Do? Campaign.
Web: www.ustedquepuedehacer.org; www.plowsharegroup.com/media_downloads/cde.php
Share these PSAs from the ADA National Network - the leaders in providing information, guidance and training on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
- I Am – ADA Public Service Announcement #1
- You're Hired – ADA Public Service Announcement #2
- Where's Brett? – ADA Public Service Announcement #3
- Service Animals Are Welcome – ADA Public Service Announcement #4
- Good Morning Class – ADA Public Service Announcement #5
- Day in Student Life – ADA Public Service Announcement #6
Web: www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrukJTUmc_A
This 17-minute video for employers uses a question-and-answer format to explain the ADA in common sense terms and refute unfounded misconceptions and fears that many employers may have about hiring people with disabilities. The new video and other ADA accessible streaming videos are available at the ADA Video Gallery.
The Disability Law Lowdown (DLL) project of the ADA National Network has posted a podcast about self-advocacy for high school students with disabilities. Jacquie Brennan discusses a new information sheet published by the Pacer Center (pacer.org) that provides valuable information for high school students about how to plan for their future by taking an active role in IEP meetings and transition planning, whether the transition is to employment, post-secondary education, or independent living. It is important that students learn to advocate for themselves so that goals are set and plans are made that include their own desires and needs.
The Disability Law Lowdown Podcasts are back online with new host, Lex Frieden, from the Southwest ADA Center (ILRU). Topics will include talking about the international aspect of disability and disability rights, and the new regulations from the Department of Justice and the Access Board.
The DLL is a project of ADA National Network that is a free podcast series available to download in English, Spanish (Español), and American Sign Language (ASL) and covers a wide variety of disability-related topics. Each podcast is archived, including show notes and a full text transcript. To subscribe or listen to podcasts, visit Podcast Series: DisabilityLawLowdown.com.
Past topics in the Disability Law Lowdown Podcasts Series include:
- New Employment Guidance from the EEOC (June 15, 2011) (English)
- New Regulations for Titles II and III of the ADA (English)
- Service Animals (program in three parts) (English)
- Genetics Information Non-Discrimination Act (GINA) (English)
- Filing Closed Captioning Complaints - Part 1 (ASL)
- Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and Service Animals (ASL)
- El Titulo numero 2 del ADA (Spanish/Español)
- La Verdad sobre la ley de Discapacidad (Spanish/Español)
Source: DisabilityLawLowdown.com
Bi-weekly videos on disability law delivered with American Sign Language (ASL), captioning, voice-over, and transcripts. Subscribe via web or iTunes.
Web: ASL.DisabilityLawLowdown.com
College students with disabilities share strategies they use to succeed in staying in school, graduate and land jobs. Use these closed-captioned videos as part of a training (each video is 7-9 minutes) and share them with other students and professionals. Watch the videos online at the New England ADA Center website or request a DVD via email adainfo@newenglandada.org.
Web: adaptiveenvironments.org/neada/site/student_videos
On-Site Training Events
Register Today for the 2012 National ADA Symposium
Now is the time to update your training on the Americans with Disabilities Act!
The updated 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the Title II Regulations become fully effective on March 15, 2012. These updates, in conjunction with the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA), directly affect all businesses, local governments, and covered employers. Now is the time to get training on these newest standards and regulations, and learn how the changes affect you, your business and your community.
Attend the 2012 National ADA Symposium, offered in two locations:
- Orlando, Florida from March 12-14
- Indianapolis, Indiana from May 30-June 1
Visit ADAsymposium.org to learn more and to register today.
Search a wealth of ADA training materials, including case studies, courses, handouts, case law updates, statistics, quotes, and solutions for specific audiences.
Web: ADAcourse.org
A publication from the Department of Justice, includes the latest chapter on: Emergency Management for State and Local Governments.
Web: ADA.gov/pcatoolkit/toolkitmain.htm
The Campaign for Disability Employment, a collaborative of leading disability and business organizations funded by ODEP, recently unveiled a series of new products designed to promote the hiring, retention and advancement of people with disabilities and dispel negative stereotypes about disability and employment. The new products include posters and discussion guides to accompany the Campaign's “I Can” public service announcement (PSA). The discussion guides and posters, as well as other outreach tools, can be ordered free of charge on the Campaign's website.
Source: Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
PUBLICATIONS
New Publications
Employer Resources, developed by the Burton Blatt Institute (BBI) at Syracuse University under its Employer Demand Project, are now available online. The Employer Demand briefs and toolkit are designed to provide employers with resources on incorporating people with disabilities into the workplace and improving employment outcomes for all workers.
The Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) has developed this resource to provide valuable information for individuals, community employment agencies, policymakers and others pursuing integrated employment for youth and adults with disabilities.
Source: Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
Leading Practices on Disability Inclusion
The U.S. Business Leadership Network (USBLN) released these booklets with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce which highlights 20 real-life, successful corporate strategies that can be used by businesses of all sizes to create a more inclusive workplace, marketplace, and supply chain.
The WRP is a recruitment and referral program that connects federal and private sector employers nationwide with highly motivated postsecondary students and recent graduates with disabilities who are eager to prove their abilities in the workplace through summer or permanent jobs. The program is co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) and the U.S. Department of Defense with the participation of many other federal agencies and sub-agencies.
This colorful poster introduces children to sign language with the ASL alphabet, numbers 1-10, and other useful words in American sign language (ASL). Price: $4.50
Source: Rocky Mountain ADA Center
Newsletters Links
Monthly newsletter from the Office of Disability Employment Policy, U.S. Department of Labor. This month's topic is: "Shaping Tomorrow's Workforce – Today."
Source: Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
A bi-monthly newsletter from the U.S. Access Board is now available in HTML format.
The JAN E-News is a quarterly online newsletter of the Job Accommodation Network (JAN).
HAVAccess is Inclusion Solutions' newsletter to help election officials address polling place and other disability access requirements under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA).
The Great Lakes ADA Center is part of the ADA National Network. The January - March 2012 issue is now posted.
The biweekly Disability Law & Policy e-Newsletter is a free publication that summarizes the most current information available about disability law and policy, including events, press releases, court decisions, reports, and academic and news articles. Subscription required.
Source: Law, Health Policy & Disability Center
A bi-monthly newsletter update from the Department of Justice about the Civil Rights Division's activities in the area of disability rights.
Available online is the latest issue of our ADA Pipeline (Volume 20, Number 1, 2011), a newsletter published by the Southeast ADA Center to share extensive information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), disability-related issues, and accessible technology Each issue is available online in four formats: Word, PDF, Text, and Large Print. Subscribe to E-mail List for the Southeast ADA Center.
Source: ADAsoutheast.org/pipeline.php#h192
For more publications:
Publication Lists, and Newsletters.
Articles of Interest
The only fully-accessible house ever designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright is headed for the auction block and now a group is trying to save it.
Related story: Local Preservationists Have Winning Bid for Frank Lloyd Wright Home
Sources: Disability Scoop, Rockford Register Star, IL
Inclusion Films trains adults with developmental disabilities in the nuts and bolts of filmmaking -- from writing the script to building sets and using film and editing equipment -- with the goal of finding them jobs in the entertainment industry or some other field.
Source: Los Angeles Times (blog)
Read the full story on CNN Hero Richard St. Denis: Free Wheelchairs Give New Life to Rural Mexicans | More information on the World Access Project
Tara Miller is legally blind. She's also an award-winning art photographer.
Source: CNN Report
Young boy with Downs appears in national advertisement for Target.
Source: Disability Scoop
Related: Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team
RESOURCES
Bookmark for Future Reference
This webinar presented by the ADA National Network on November 15, 2011 discussed how to provide effective communication for businesses. PowerPoint slides, resources, and an audio transcript are archived and PDF, Text and audio files are available.
Check out the new, open captioned videos that guide you through the Disability.gov website. The videos explain Disability.gov's accessibility features, different ways to search for information on the site, how to create your personal account, and other tools and features that make it easy to quickly locate the information and resources you want. A text version of the guide: how to use Disability.gov is also available.
Source: Disability.gov
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) is now offering a free app (application) for Android phone users called DisAbilityConnect. With just a tap of your finger, you can find contact information for organizations offering resources on disabilities, special education, early intervention, support groups and more.
Source: National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY)
The Medicaid Reference Desk is a new website that offers a one-stop overview of the medical and social services available to people with developmental disabilities in each state.
The Fair Housing FIRST project is back in operation to answer your Fair Housing Act questions. A training calendar is also available.
- The toll free number is 888-341-7781
- E-mail Address: afagan@humancentereddesign.org
- Website: www.fairhousingfirst.org (Website updates are in progress.)
Various resource lists are available in Word and Text formats from the Southeast ADA Center. Topics of interest, include: Employment-Related and ADA Definitions, Federal Employment and Disability, ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), the Olmstead Decision, Voting Rights, Arts Facilities & Museums and more.
Quotes
“Our rules on how airlines handle disability-related complaints are designed to help us ensure that passengers with disabilities are treated fairly when they fly. We will continue to make sure carriers comply with our disability rules and take enforcement action when they do not.”
— U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, quoted in the Los Angeles Times article: Spirit Airlines Fined $100,000 over Passengers' Complaint.
Find these and more Notable Quotes for use in your speeches and presentations.
RESEARCH
Research Update
An Annual Report on Charges, Litigation, Regulatory Developments and
Noteworthy Case Developments from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Related article: EEOC actions, enforcement trends focus of report on agency
Source: Business Insurance.com
The Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Disability Statistics and Demographics (StatsRRTC) compiles and organizes the large quantities of survey and administrative data related to people with disabilities that are collected each year.
Despite ADA requirements that students with disabilities receive accommodations during tests like extra time or altered test formats, this report found that those with disabilities often face significant barriers.
Source: Government Accountability Office (GAO)
The report sets forth specific recommendations for the production and distribution of accessible instructional materials including printed and digital books, journals, course packs, articles, tests, videos, instructor-created materials, and Web pages, as well as any hardware, firmware, software, or other means of accessing such materials-to students who are blind or have other disabilities. | Comments on this report (postsecondary accessible instructional materials) from the National Federation of the Blind (NFB)
Source: U.S. Department of Education
About five percent of school-age children in the United States have a disability, according to a first-of-its-kind analysis from the U.S. Census Bureau. Released in November, the brief offers an in-depth look at children with disabilities, ages five through 17, who live in community settings.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Employers in the U.S. hospitality industry are often reluctant to hire people with disabilities because of prejudices and stereotypes that these individuals are incompetent at doing the job or that they are more costly to employ than people without disabilities, according to a new study (hospitality industry and hiring people with disabilities) by the University of New Hampshire.
Sources: Medical Daily, University of New Hampshire
Check out this popular resource that highlights examples of effective ADA implementation and support for improving access to technology for individuals with disabilities.
Through analysis of requests that the Southeast ADA Center has received for information, training and technical assistance since 1990 together with guidance from our Partners and State Affiliates, we strive to develop and implement innovative research that will result in new knowledge and have great potential to impact policy and practice on two issues of particular importance to the Southeast Region:
- Barriers to employment and economic self-sufficiency of people with disabilities.
- Increasing the civic and social participation of people with disabilities within their communities and across America.
Surveys & Study Opportunities
Study on Voting Accessibility
The Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access (CATEA) at Georgia Tech is conducting a study regarding accessible voting to investigate how environmental barriers and electronic voting machines affect participation in the voting process among individuals with disabilities. The study will involve one or more telephone interviews. Each interview will take approximately an hour, and participants will be paid $25 per interview. If you have a disability and are interested in the study, please fill out a screening survey for study on voting accessibility online. Those who prefer to complete the screening survey by phone may call Maureen Linden at 404-894-0561. Completing the screening information does not commit you to participating in the study. CATEA will contact those who meet the study criteria for further study information.
Source: surveygizmo.com/s3/650795/Voting-Project
Statistics & Facts You Can Use
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) received a record 99,947 charges of employment discrimination and obtained $455.6 million in relief through its administrative program and litigation in Fiscal Year (FY) 2011.
A recent poll released by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the Northeast ADA Center at Cornell University's ILR School found that a majority (67%) of HR professionals have included veterans in their organization's diversity plan or policy during the past 12 months. However, only 17% of HR professionals said their organization hired a veteran who disclosed a disability either before or after time of hire.
Source: HR.BLR.com
Sources: U.S. Department of Labor Office of Disability Employment Policy, Bureau of Labor Statistics
Now available in PDF format. More information on NOD Survey of Employment of Americans with Disabilities.
This 2011 collection of survey data and administrative records related to people with disabilities offers statistics to support research related to policy improvements, program administration, service delivery and protection of civil rights.
Source: Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Disability Statistics and Demographics (StatsRRTC)
Connect & Network
UNTIL NEXT NEWSLETTER ...
Wishing you success in your ADA activities from your Southeast ADA Center!
Credits & Acknowledgements
Principal Investigator: Peter Blanck, J.D., Ph.D.
Project Director:
Pamela Williamson
Assistant Director:
L. Elaine Sutton Mbionwu
Director - Knowledge Translation:
Sally Weiss
Distance Learning Coordinator:
Cheri Hofmann
Materials Development/Support:
Mary Morder
Technical Assistance:
Rebecca Williams
Director of Research:
Meera Adya, J.D., Ph.D.
Legal/Case Law:
William Myhill, J.D
Business Leadership Council:
Michael Morris, J.D.
Web/Instructional Design:
Marsha Schwanke
Disclaimer
Accessibility cannot be guaranteed for external websites. The Southeast ADA Center provides these links as a courtesy and does not endorse, take responsibility, or exercise control of the organization nor vouch for the accuracy of the contents of the destination link. The contents of this electronic newsletter were developed under Grant #H133A110021 from the Department of Education, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR). The information, materials, and/or technical assistance are intended solely as informal guidance, and are neither a determination of your legal rights or responsibilities under the ADA, nor binding on any agency with enforcement responsibility under the ADA.
Facebook: Southeast ADA Center — Be Sure to Visit Us!
ADA Public Service Announcement (PSA) Series from the ADA National Network
