In the 10 years since the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued new regulations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), accessibility for people with disabilities has become the norm in cities and towns across the country. Providing ease of access to the disabled in public spaces is the responsibility of state and local governments as well as businesses and organizations, large and small.

One of the most visible signs of the impact of the ADA’s guidelines is the increased  number of handicap parking spots found in commercial and public parking areas. Adding accessible parking is one step government agencies, businesses and privately run facilities can take to ensure people with disabilities are able to work and participate in programs, services or activities, both indoors and out.

Signed into law in 1990, The Americans with Disabilities Act was a major stepping-stone in ensuring equal rights for all Americans with disabilities. All businesses and privately held facilities are obligated to follow ADA guidelines. The law requires commercial parking lots and pedestrian paths to be accessible to everyone. This includes providing the disabled with parking spaces that offer ample access for vehicles as well as other mobility aids such as wheelchairs and power chairs.

Businesses are required to know the State requirements regarding accommodations for persons with disabilities. This is in addition to the Federal requirements.

For instance, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law on July 25th, 2014 mandating the replacement of the iconic handicap symbol. The legislation was signed by the Governor on the eve of the 24th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

A Small Business must understand the Federal and the State requirements regarding the accommodation of persons with disabilities.