Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to clarify and expand the definition of discriminatory practices against individuals with disabilities by places of public accommodation in Minnesota. It focuses on ensuring equal access and eliminating discrimination in services and facilities used by the public.

Main Provisions

• General Prohibitions Against Discrimination: The bill outlines that it is discriminatory to deny individuals with disabilities the opportunity to enjoy services and facilities that are not equal to those provided to others. This includes providing subpar or different accommodations unless these are necessary to deliver equally effective options.

• Access to Television Services: It requires places of public accommodation to provide closed captioning for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals if they offer television services to others.

• Provision of Accessible Medical Equipment: The bill mandates that individuals with mobility disabilities must have access to accessible medical equipment. This includes adjustable-height examination tables and chairs, manual transfer items, and lifts (portable and overhead track lifts).

• Most Integrated Setting: It specifies that services for individuals with disabilities must be provided in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs.

• Participation in Non-Separated Programs: Individuals with disabilities cannot be denied participation in non-separated programs or activities, even if separate programs exist.

• Criteria That Result in Discrimination: The use of standards, criteria, or methods that result in discrimination or perpetuate it must be avoided.

Specific Prohibitions

• Eligibility Criteria: The use of eligibility criteria that tend to exclude individuals with disabilities unless such criteria are essential for providing services is prohibited.

• Reasonable Modifications: Failure to make necessary modifications to policies or practices for individuals with disabilities is prohibited unless it would fundamentally alter the nature of services provided.

• Barrier Removal: Entities must remove architectural and communication barriers in facilities and vehicles if it is readily achievable, and must offer alternative means if removal is not achievable.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill adds specific requirements for accessible medical equipment in health care settings, ensuring individuals with mobility disabilities are accommodated.
• New provisions stipulate the requirement for closed-captioned television services and detail prohibitions related to common administrative control standards that perpetuate discrimination.

Relevant Terms

accessible medical equipment, discrimination, disability, eligibility criteria, public accommodation, reasonable modifications, architectural barriers, mobility disability, integrated setting, auxiliary aids, accessible equipment, closed captioning