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What do we do at the Great Lakes ADA Center?

Provide informal technical assistance on the ADA via our toll free number
800 949 4232 (V/TTY).
Conduct trainings on the five titles of the ADA and Accessible Information Technology.
Disseminate publications from various government agencies on the provisions of the ADA.
Assist in locating local and national resources to assist in disability related issues.

Disability Law Update

Harkin's Bill for Emergency Preparedness and Response for People with Disabilities

Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA) has introduced S. 2124, the Emergency Preparedness and Response for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 2005. This legislation will address the needs of individuals with disabilities in emergency planning and relief efforts.

This legislation would require the creation of a Disability Coordinator in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The Coordinator would be responsible for:

Working with local, state and federal authorities to identify the needs of individuals with disabilities in emergency planning and relief
Development of a curriculum for first responder training on the needs of individuals with disabilities
Ensuring the accessibility and usability of telephone hotlines and websites containing information about evacuations by individuals with disabilities
Provide guidance about the rights of individuals with disabilities regarding post evacuation residence and relocation

The legislation would also require that 30 percent of temporary housing for disaster victims be accessible, and usable by individuals with disabilities. It would also provide incentives to create more accessible housing during the reconstruction of impacted regions.