By Vicki Leeper (if you have something for the newsletter, contact us at infomos@dacnw.org)

I never like hearing from business owners that the ADA is an “unfunded mandate.” I understand it can mean some expenses. But the law has been in effect for over 30 years. It pre-dates many business decisions. That’s why it was refreshing to talk to a business who wanted to see what they could do to be more accessible – before additions were made.An ideal situation, as it can reduce costs to become more accessible if done in the planning stages.

The ADA already has a lot of limitation built in with phrases like “readily achievable” and “reasonable accommodation”. Many access improvements will benefit the business over time, helping those with strollers, as well as wheelchairs and walkers. Program access is equally important. More on that next month.

QUOTES TO MAKE YOU THINK!

“The longer I work in psychiatry, the more I realize that poverty is one of the most harmful factors (if not the most harmful factor) affecting peoples’ mental health. ” ~ Ahmed Hankir, The Wounded Healer