What buildings are covered? What are the standards for making new buildings accessible?
As a general rule, all newly constructed places of public accommodation and commercial facilities, occupied after January 26, 1993, must be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities to the extent that it is not structurally impracticable (i.e., unique characteristics of the land prevent the incorporation of accessibility features in a facility). “Readily accessible and usable” means that facilities must be built in strict compliance with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. There is no cost defense to the new construction requirements.
