Bill > S1629

This bill amends the law governing the Architectural Access Board (AAB) in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. The bill changes the composition of the AAB, requiring that three of the appointive members be selected after consultation with advocacy groups for people with disabilities. 2. It expands the AAB's authority to make rules and regulations to make not just public buildings, but also areas that are not generally open to the public, accessible and safe for use by people with disabilities. 3. It sets standards for the minimum percentage of accessible units in residential facilities, with flexibility for the AAB to adjust this percentage based on demonstrated need in different areas of the state. 4. The bill updates the terminology used throughout the law, replacing outdated references to "physically handicapped persons" with "persons with disabilities." 5. It requires the AAB to promulgate new regulations within 90 days to implement the changes made by this bill. Overall, the bill aims to make Massachusetts more accessible for people with disabilities by strengthening the laws and regulations governing accessibility in the built environment.