Bill > S0887

This bill amends Rhode Island's existing disability anti-discrimination law to provide continued protection against disability discrimination in state-funded programs, even if federal protections under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (a key federal civil rights law protecting people with disabilities) are repealed, invalidated, or nullified by federal court action or executive action. Specifically, the bill ensures that if federal protections are weakened or eliminated, Rhode Island will maintain the same level of disability discrimination protections that were in effect immediately before such federal change. The bill instructs state authorities to interpret these protections broadly and to the fullest extent possible under state and federal law, with the goal of preserving robust safeguards for people with disabilities in state programs, activities, and services. The legislation aims to create a safety net that prevents potential erosion of disability rights at the state level, regardless of changes at the federal level, and will take effect immediately upon passage.

Education

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