Bill > H0299

This bill modifies Florida's existing elevator accessibility requirements by mandating that elevator car interiors have at least one support rail meeting specific technical specifications. The bill requires that the support rail be continuous, a minimum of 42 inches in length, positioned between 31 and 33 inches from the finished floor, and placed at least 1.5 inches away from the car wall. The support rail must be smooth with no sharp edges and cannot be more than 1.5 inches thick or 2.5 inches in diameter. Additionally, the bill prohibits using padded, tufted, or decorative materials like wallpaper, vinyl, or cloth on support rails. These requirements are designed to improve accessibility and safety for physically handicapped persons using elevators, building upon existing accessibility standards that have been in place since 1990. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving building owners and elevator manufacturers time to comply with the new specifications.

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https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/299