The U.S. Access Board will hold public hearings this summer, in Los Angeles and Washington D.C., seeking public comment regarding guidelines developed under the ADA for passenger vessels. Interested parties can provide feedback on the guidelines, and a notice that is being developed outlining several different options on addressing access to smaller vessels. The Los Angeles hearing will take place June 24th (2:00-5:00pm) and the Washington D.C. hearing will be held July 25th (10:00am-12:00pm).
For further information, contact Paul Beatty at 202-272-0012 (V), 202-272-0082 (TTY), or by email pvag@access-board.gov.
A new online training course titled "Buying Accessible Telecommunications Products" has been added to the "Section 508 Universe" program. This course is designed to increase knowledge of the accessibility requirements of Section 508. Federal departments and agencies are required under Section 508 to develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology assure that these technologies provide access to information and data for people with disabilities. The "Section 508 Universe" is comprised of online tutorials and resources designed to assist professionals and others responsible for purchasing telecommunication equipment for their organizations.
The DOJ in conjunction with the National Council on Disability and the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission has issued two publications concerning access to mediation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The publications, titled "Questions and Answers for Mediation Providers: Mediation and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)" and "Questions and Answers for Parties to Mediation: Mediation and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)", explain the process and efficacy of mediation as an alternative to resolve a claim of discrimination brought under the ADA.
The EEOC announced that it will open regional offices in Las Vegas, Nevada and Mobile, Alabama. The new regional offices will enable the EEOC to provide services in new geographic areas recommended by a comprehensive three-year review of its organizational structure and operation. This comprehensive review is the second of three repositioning efforts being conducted by the EEOC. The first involved establishing a National Contact Center, on a pilot basis, as the agency strives to better serve members of the public. The third phase will involve streamlining the Washington headquarters, with well-defined lines of responsibilities and clarification of roles.