OHIO SUMMARY REPORT
APRIL 4, 1995

Host organization: Ohio Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
NCD Member: Jack Gannon

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Ohio?

A number of Ohioans spoke about the positive changes the ADA has made in their lives. The ADA's employment provisions received especially high marks. Others testified about the benefits to their children with disabilities, and to increased opportunities to participate in civic and community life.

"I've heard employers say again and again that their employees with disabilities are their hardest working and most reliable employees," stated David Wilkin, whose company produced a video in which employers describe their experiences in hiring people with disabilities. According to employers Wilkin has interviewed, people with disabilities are very happy to have a chance to work and are eager to do their best. The employers interviewed said that only minimal accommodations have been required.

Others also testified that most workplace accommodations are minimal. Elsie Danovich, a wheelchair user with an illness that robs her of energy, testified that her employer allows her a flexible schedule. She can work during the hours when she feels the freshest.

Fatica Ayers, whose illness requires her to rest, keep warm, and elevate her legs, has been accommodated at work fairly easily. Her employer gave her the warmest office, and she uses an ottoman to raise her legs. She also takes breaks when necessary. "Once when I couldn't come to work at all but had a meeting to run," says Ayers, "my boss allowed me to conduct it via a conference call. Even though I needed to rest at home that day, I could still do my job," she says.

Sometimes accommodations are made to help employees care for family members with disabilities. Mary Biel, the mother of a child with severe cerebral palsy, explained that the hospital where her husband works accommodates him by letting him work the day shift. "Our daughter's health problems are worse at night, so we are glad my husband can be at home then," she said.

In addition to requiring reasonable accommodation in the workplace, the ADA also calls for fairness in the job interview process. "Before the ADA, I could go to a job interview and the employer could say we won't hire you because you're disabled," reported Tim Harrington. "And I had no legal recourse." Today employers must give equal consideration to Harrington and others if they can perform the essential functions of the job.

The 'essential function' concept is an important one, according to Jerry Droll of ADA-Ohio. He described an employer he knows who wanted to hire a blind woman because she tested better than other job applicants. But he was worried because she would be unable to count the money in the cash box. But when the employer stopped to think that this activity took place only for an hour every two weeks, he decided to hire her. "The employer realized that this small part of the job was not an essential function," said Droll. "She could perform all the essential functions, so he hired her."

The benefits of ADA are not limited to adults. Children benefit as well, several told NCD. Dawn Caldwell's son has cerebral palsy, but she is looking forward to his participation in preschool next year. "It's great to see how attitudes have changed," she said. "All the preschools we looked at were accepting and eager to have Alex. They have ramps and accessible bathrooms." Caldwell says that thanks in part to the ADA, she can take her son anywhere and he will feel included.

Brad Hollys of the Independent Living Center in central Ohio agreed that the ADA is benefiting children. He read a letter from a parent who said the ADA has been invoked several times in her five year old son's life for the building of ramps to allow him to get into a number of buildings for physical therapy and other activities.

The ADA is about more than rights-it is about responsibilities as well. Irwin Hott explained that he had served for three months on a grand jury. "My blindness was not a problem," he said. Hott used a Braille & Speak to take notes and found the grand jury experience fascinating. Hott had been called for jury duty in the 1970s but had been automatically excluded because of his blindness.

Gale Gross described a blind woman who served for two weeks on jury duty. "A few years ago she would not have been allowed to serve," said Gross, who works with ADA-Ohio. People in the court system were sensitive to her disability, and she had a good experience, according to Gross. "She attributes her good experience to the increase in disability awareness brought about by the ADA."

Getting out and participating in the life of the community has become much easier since the ADA, many said. Paratransit is improving, according to Ann Gazelle, a social worker in Columbus who is blind. "It's the small things that make ADA so valuable," said Ann Christopher. If it were not for parking reserved for people with disabilities and accessible bathrooms, she could not have participated in the Ohio Town Meeting, she said.

As more people with disabilities are participating in community activities, the word is getting out that people with disabilities are consumers. Bob McCallum stated that one of the largest home builders in central Ohio featured an accessible home at its recent home show. "This is a direct result of changing attitudes that we've been seeing since the ADA was enacted," said McCallum.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Access to participation in the justice system has increased.
• People with disabilities have had a chance to show they make good employees.
• Simple workplace accommodations have allowed more people with disabilities to be employed.
• People in wheelchairs are having the experience of entering restaurants and other businesses through the front door, and that is having a positive effect on self-esteem.
• ADA has allowed children to participate in activities that once only non-disabled children could enjoy.
• ADA has been a valuable tool for the education of people who are not disabled.
• Shopping has become more accessible. More stores are physically accessible, and salespeople are more willing to accommodate customers with disabilities.
• Accessible public transportation has improved and continues to improve.

OKLAHOMA SUMMARY REPORT
FEBRUARY 21, 1995

Host organization: Oklahoma City Mayor's Committee on Disability Concerns
NCD Representative: Billie Jean Hill, NCD Staff

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Oklahoma?

Oklahomans who spoke at the Town Meeting in Oklahoma City testified that the ADA has made a positive difference in their lives.

One of ADA's greatest impacts, several speakers said, is in the area of employment. Architect Roger Barton commented that employers are finding that they benefit from hiring and keeping employees with disabilities.

Kit Phillips of FRIENDS Group, Inc. is proud that her daughter Tina is employed, in spite of the fact that she is mentally retarded and has a physical disability. ADA has helped to change attitudes of employers from focusing on what a person with a disability cannot do to what that person can do. And Phillips's group is working to help high school graduates with disabilities make the transition to adulthood and the work world. "We just got a grant to hire a job coach to work with young people who are ready to be employed," said Phillips. "Once a young person is employed, the job coach will work with him or her and the employer until all three feel comfortable that the employee can perform well on the job. An ongoing resource, the job coach will check in periodically with each employee in the program," explained Phillips.

Greater awareness of disabilities, fostered by the ADA, has also led to increased acceptance by co-workers of individuals with disabilities, according to Cathy Ames of the Department of Rehabilitative Services' employment program. A client of Ames--a woman who is deaf and a wheelchair user--has been well-received by her co-workers. "In fact, they are all learning sign language so that they can communicate with her," said Ames. Ames's agency has just launched a new program to help people who are HIV-positive find employment. She admits that such an undertaking is a challenge, but as attitudinal barriers are falling, thanks to the ADA and growth in the disability rights movement, she is hopeful that her HIV clients will succeed.

A lot has changed in terms of business acceptance of the ADA, according to Roger Barton. He remembers that just before the ADA passed, many businesses and employers were asking how they could get around the ADA. "They wanted to do their building before the ADA went into effect so they would not have to comply," he said. "People in business were scared because they did not really know what the law meant." But today it's a different story. "Businesses have seen their customer base expand with ADA implementation," said Barton.

"Businesses used to say they didn't have any disabled patrons anyway, so why make their establishments accessible?" recalled George Lewis, who chairs the Mayor's Committee on Disability Concerns. "The ADA has been very helpful," he says, "as businesses realize that by working toward accessibility they are adding customers--people with disabilities--who couldn't patronize their establishments before."

The growth in disability consciousness that the ADA has helped bring about is giving children with disabilities more opportunities to participate in the activities other children take for granted, explained Kenny Violette, ADA Coordinator for the City of Yukon. He described an effort underway in his community of 18,000 to build an accessible playground. "We have already received contributions totalling more than $110,000 for the Freedom Trail," Violette told those assembled. "The playground will not be specifically for children who are physically impaired, but will be a place where all children can have fun," he said.

The opportunity to participate is what ADA is all about. Cathy Ames, the daughter of a wheelchair user, said, "I see the progress the ADA has brought, through my father's eyes." In the past, Ames said, her family could not go out to eat without a family member first visiting the restaurant to make sure her father's wheelchair would make it through the door. "Sometimes he had to come in through the back entrance," she said. It is much easier today, she said. Thanks to the ADA, many more places are accessible.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers.

• The public is more aware of people with disabilities than just a few years ago.
• People with disabilities have gained confidence and are participating more fully in all aspects of life.
• While much remains to be done, the ADA has been a success in increasing opportunities for employment and access to public facilities.

OREGON SUMMARY REPORT
APRIL 21, 1995

Host organization: Oregon Disabilities Commission
NCD Member: Kate Wolters

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Oregon?

Oregonians spoke enthusiastically about a number of aspects of the ADA and the difference the law has made in their lives and the lives of others. Many spoke about the ADA as a stimulus for the development of an array of assistive technologies, while others focused on employment gains, greater accessibility in public accommodations, and other benefits.

Rachel Cranson told a story about technology and the ADA. Cranson, who is blind, has a 15 year old daughter, an honor student who is also blind. Cranson got a call from her daughter's geometry teacher requesting that the girl drop a class so that she could spend extra time with him to learn to draw better for geometry, especially since she had expressed interest in a career in architecture. ""Get real!" I told him. "She's blind. She'll never be an architect. Why should she drop a class?"" The group at the Town Meeting laughed when she recalled his reply. ""You get real," he told me. He said there are good voice-activated computer programs now, and when she graduates from college they'll be even better. "She could be a stunning architect!" he told me." Cranson attributes the current explosion in assistive technologies in part to the ADA.

T.J. Davis, an accessibility specialist for the Deaf and Hearing Impaired Access Project of the Oregon Disabilities Commission, described a woman who wanted to be a nurse and also had a severe hearing impairment. It seemed she could not achieve her goal because she would be unable to hear through a stethoscope. "But then she learned about an electronic stethoscope that transmits sound directly to her hearing aids," explained Davis. "... it enabled her to become a nurse, and she is now working in a nursing home," said Davis. "The ADA is spawning technologies used in medical settings, churches, etc. to accommodate a variety of disabilities," he went on.

Clearly, new assistive technologies are augmenting the employment provisions of the ADA to expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Steve Kreutzer, a personnel officer for the Oregon Employment Department, described three employees within his department who have disabilities. And thanks to reasonable accommodations called for in the ADA, they are doing well in their jobs. One individual, a tax auditor with a hearing loss, makes use of devices for his ears and the phone, according to Kreutzer. The man also has a modified workstation, designed to keep peripheral noise to a minimum, since background noise can interfere with his ability to hear what he needs to hear. Kreutzer described another employee, a disabled veterans outreach specialist, who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and other medical conditions as a result of injuries he sustained in Vietnam. "We work with his therapist and the Disabilities Commission and have obtained hearing assistance devices and modifications that he needed," he said. Kreutzer's third example was a man who works as a hearing referee. His ability to use the telephone was impaired, however, when a large part of his vocal cords had to be removed due to cancer. "He couldn't be understood over the phone," Kreutzer explained, "but we found him special headset equipment that boosts his voice, so he can once again conduct hearings over the phone."

The employment provisions of the ADA have meant a great deal to Sandra Kutz and her family. Her son, a young man who is retarded, is employed 20 hours a week at a grocery store bagging groceries and carrying them to cars for customers. "My son is earning a minimum wage and working 20 hours a week," said Kutz. "It's a lot better than staying home and not having the chance to develop any job skills. Kutz's son has a sympathetic supervisor and a job coach to work with him until he learns the job well.

Janine Delauney, Executive Director of Portland's independent living center, gets a lot of calls from employers. "They're not saying "do I have to do that?"" she said, "but more and more they're saying, "I never thought about that before."" Delauney is finding employers interested in being educated about the ADA and interested in accommodating employees.

While people with disabilities are finding more opportunities in the workplace, outdoor activities are more accessible as well, thanks to the public accommodations portion of the ADA. Jim Ringelberg reports that he feels honored to be the lead designer for the Rose Garden Children's Park in Portland. A park and play area that will be accessible to all, the project would not be underway without the ADA, explained Ringelberg. The project includes an accessible play area connected to a soccer field, an archery range, and a garden. There will be a children's amphitheater with accommodations for wheelchair users and children with hearing impairments. "Without the ADA we wouldn't have had the standards we needed to make it truly accessible," stated Ringelberg.

Outdoor events like festivals, fairs, and farmers' markets are more accessible in Portland, as a result of Michael van der Kamm's advocacy efforts with the city Parks and Recreation Department. People in wheelchairs had been unable to attend outdoor events in the city because of a lack of accessible portable toilets. "If we can't go, we don't show," stated van der Kamm. He worked with the city government, which agreed to adopt a policy requiring any entity seeking a permit for an event in a Portland park to have an accessible toilet available. "People with disabilities can now participate in Portland's outdoor events," remarked van der Kamm, "and it's ADA that has made the difference."

Wheelchair sports are getting more attention and respect than before the ADA, according to Judy Arnsmeyer. She described the process by which the U.S. wheelchair basketball team is chosen. More than 40 athletes in wheelchairs are flown in for the try-outs at the expense of the U.S. Basketball Association. "This would not have happened before the ADA," commented Arnsmeyer.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Rapid advances in technology have been spurred by the passage of the ADA.
• Computer-assisted real time services are helping people with hearing impairments to participate in meetings and other functions.
• The tone of employers is changing. Instead of viewing the ADA as a burdensome law, they are more likely to want to do what is necessary to accommodate.
• Assistive technologies are proving to be reasonable accommodations that are enabling more people with disabilities to function well in the workplace.
• More doctors' and dentists' offices are becoming accessible.
• People with all sorts of disabilities are feeling encouraged, empowered, and good about themselves.

PENNSYLVANIA SUMMARY REPORT
MARCH 10, 1995

Host organizations: Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, Pennsylvania Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities, Pennsylvania State Independent Living Council
NCD Member: Jack Gannon

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Pennsylvania?

One of the most important benefits of the ADA, many in Pennsylvania said, has been the change in attitudes that has resulted. Attitudes toward disabilities have changed among non-disabled and disabled people alike. Some testified about improved access to workplace accommodations that have made employment possible, and others addressed the ADA's beneficial impact on the economy and on other disability-related legislation.

While no law can mandate a change in attitudes, many of the tangible changes wrought by the ADA have helped the public to view people with disabilities in a different light. When a bicycle accident in 1986 put Jim Penta in a wheelchair, he lost his job. "I was told that customers are turned off by a person in a wheelchair," Penta said. Not only is Jim working today but he is employed as a salesman for a national appliance company. "I finished in the top 10% recently in a sales competition," he said. Clearly, his career is not suffering from negative perceptions of disabilities.

We are beginning to see more people with disabilities in movies and ads, reported Lisa Janoff, an independent living specialist at Liberty Resources in Philadelphia. "As a woman with a disability, I really appreciate the ADA." Janoff described the excitement people at Liberty Resources feel when they see magazine ads showing people driving cars with hand controls.

Partly because of changing attitudes, Dee Sheypeck's daughter, a wheelchair user, is employed as a model in New York. "Danielle is one of the first models in a wheelchair," said her mother, who related another recent story that reveals changing attitudes toward disabilities. When a friend of Danielle's heard someone describe Danielle as 'handicapped,' the friend replied, "She's not handicapped; she just can't walk."

Because of the rising awareness about disabilities and the need for access, even entities not covered by the ADA are taking steps to become accessible. "I know of churches and private clubs that have voluntarily made their facilities accessible, so that I and others with disabilities can participate," said Howard Ervin. Attitudes among disabled people themselves have changed as a result of the ADA, several said. "I prefer to think of myself as 'handi-capable' rather than 'handicapped,'" said Michael Donmoyer, who uses a wheelchair. "I'm handy and I'm capable," he said. "The ADA has affected me bunches."

Attitudes are clearly changing for the better. A more tangible benefit of the ADA, however, is the growth in employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Many Pennsylvanians shared stories about their successes in the workplace. Joan Fenicle, who is deaf, works in a state office where people come to pay fees. "I use the relay service, and lights have been installed that alert me to what's going on," said Fenicle. She says others in her office have been receptive to learning to communicate with her.

Sylvia Martin, also deaf, works for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. For years she had had no phone at work or at home. "But thanks to the ADA, they got me a TTY at work," she said.

Another successful deaf person, Richard Harkins, has worked as a car mechanic for 26 years, the last 14 as a supervisor. "Lip reading made me miss a lot," he said. "But thanks to the ADA, I now have access to an interpreter. That's a tremendous benefit that helps me every day on the job," stated Harkins.

"I'm here to let you know how much the ADA has helped me with my job," Leslie Kelly told NCD. Kelly, who is deaf, relies on an interpreter and the relay service. "Since so many businesses, schools, etc., don't have TTY, the relay enables me to conduct business with anyone," she said. "The ADA has changed many peoples' lives, including my own," said Kelly.

David Golin credits the ADA with helping him get the accommodations he needs to do his job. "When I started my job," said Golin, "there was no accessible bathroom on my floor, so I always had to take the elevator to another floor." Now there is an accessible bathroom on the floor where he works. Another accommodation Golin uses daily is word prediction software. "I just have to type a few keystrokes; it's a great help in my work," he said.

Reasonable accommodation is not usually expensive, according to Janet Wolf of Citizens for Independence and Access in York. "Sears & Roebuck made 436 workplace accommodations between 1978 and 1992 and found that two-thirds of them cost nothing," Wolf reported. "The average cost of accommodating disabled employees was just $121," she said.

While the ADA has helped many individuals with disabilities to be taxpaying wage earners, the ADA is also good for the economy as a whole, says Allen Mertz a self-employed durable medical equipment supplier who uses a wheelchair. "Now that the ADA is helping people with disabilities participate more fully in society, the need for adaptive equipment is growing," said Mertz. There are ramps and lifts to be built, walkers, wheelchairs, and electric door openers to be manufactured, and adaptive computer software to be designed. All of these industries will yield jobs and pump more money into the economy, he explained.

Finally, the ADA's existence increases compliance with another disability-related law, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Cheryl Brand said she had to fight for her nine year old son who has emotional problems to be able to attend public school and ride the school bus. "The ADA is what finally got him in school," said his mother. She believes the ADA has made school officials and others aware that people with disabilities have civil rights.

Phyllis Koster reported that her son Taylor, who is mildly retarded, is successful both academically and socially in his mainstream seventh grade class. "The kids truly like and accept him and are learning to look beyond differences," said Taylor's mom. She sees his success as a result, in part, of the ADA and the increased awareness it has brought about.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Attitudes toward disabilities have improved, among people with and without disabilities.
• The number of curb cuts has increased, and that has greatly increased the ability of people in wheelchairs to get around.
• Access to interpreters and new technologies for people with hearing impairments are expanding employment opportunities for them.
• Access to interpreters in medical settings has enabled people with hearing impairments to become informed participants in their own health care.

RHODE ISLAND SUMMARY REPORT
MARCH 21, 1995

Host organization: Rhode Island Governor's Commission on the Handicapped
NCD Member: Jack Gannon

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Rhode Island?

Rhode Islanders told NCD about the many positive effects the ADA has had on their lives. From public accommodations to employment, from the relay service to transportation, the ADA has made a big difference to many people.

The variety of public accommodations that have become accessible is great. For example, grocery shopping used to be an ordeal for Karen Nelson, who has multiple sclerosis. But now when she goes to Stop and Shop to buy her groceries, she knows a motorized cart will be there for her. "I'm thankful that I can shop self-sufficiently," remarked Nelson. "And people in the store are very helpful about getting items that I can't reach. K-Mart stores also provide scooters, Nelson pointed out. "I really appreciate the ADA giving the stores the impetus to provide scooters," she added.

Lorna Ricci has noticed that shopping has become easier since the ADA for a different reason. Ricci, who is extremely visually impaired, explained that before the ADA she was reluctant to ask for help from a sales clerk or a waiter. "I was regarded as odd," she said. "But now, with the ADA, people have more awareness. When I ask people to read something for me because I'm visually impaired, they are usually cooperative," she said. Ricci believes she spends more money now that the ADA is in effect. She gave an example of shopping in a bookstore for her nephew. "Because the sales clerk was so helpful in showing me a variety of books my nephew would like," commented Ricci, "I ended up buying more books and spending more money than I would have before the ADA, when shopping for gifts was so much more difficult."

Physical access in many communities has been increasing rapidly since the ADA was enacted. "We have curb cuts and ramps sprouting up like weeds all around the state," exclaimed Edward Schroeder, of the Rhode Island Independent Living Council. Schroeder also described what the Catholic Church is doing to increase access for people with disabilities. The Bishop of the Diocese of Rhode Island, he explained, has issued a letter stating that the ADA can be considered diocesan policy regarding disabilities.

Access to public accommodations is making life better for children with disabilities, according to two parents who spoke. Teresa Nickerson has a three year old daughter who is deaf, legally blind, and cannot use her arms and legs. "Because of the ADA," Nickerson said, "my husband and I can much more easily take our daughter places." Nickerson feels that, thanks to the ADA, more people with disabilities are getting out into the community, and their presence is a good example for her daughter.

Another parent, John Sousa, has three sons with disabilities, and Sousa himself is legally blind. He described his recent use of the ADA in advocating for appropriate accommodation for one son who is mentally retarded and a wheelchair user. The boy had been accepted in a week-long self-esteem building program with others his age, but "we were told he couldn't come to the program unless he had a 24-hour a day attendant to take care of him." Sousa tried to explain that his son needs much less care than that. "In fact, an adult attached to the boy 24 hours a day would interfere with his ability to participate in the program," said Sousa. By invoking the ADA, Sousa managed to get the director to back off, and his son was able to participate fully in the program, where he also formed some new friendships. "So," his father added, "using the ADA and the tools it makes available, he's made linkage with some new friends."

Because of increasing access in public accommodations, Robert Gearing is able to use his abilities in his chosen field of work. "I can say without hesitation that I would not be able to fully perform my job without the passage of some kind of national accessibility legislation," Gearing wrote in a letter he submitted to NCD. A wheelchair user, Gearing is a marketing manager in the tourism industry and must travel frequently around the country. "The first and foremost benefit I have found with ADA is the requirement of minimum standards for accommodations in hotels," he wrote. He no longer feels he is asking too much when he expects a hotel to provide him with an accessible room. Gearing also says that the conventions and trade shows he attends must comply with the ADA, and this means that shuttle transportation, meeting facilities, and programs are all accessible. "The associations and meeting planners that produce these shows now have a standard from which they can operate in uniform fashion," Gearing writes. Gearing feels that he is well-qualified for the work he does, but "without the ADA, I would not have the opportunity to pursue a career that my talents are best suited for."

Beth Wilson, an engineer who is hard of hearing, commented that "the ADA permits me to pursue professional growth." Wilson described a recent conference she attended in Boston. Had it been held before the ADA, "I would have been forced to refuse," she said. But because the conference hotel was accessible, Wilson was able to hear every speaker with the use of FM equipment, and she could move to different sessions and compare notes with colleagues. And, as Wilson pointed out, she is not the only one who benefited from her attendance at the conference. The sponsoring organization benefited because she bought a $1,500 ticket; her company benefited because what she learned at the conference was applicable to her work; and the city of Boston benefited because she spent time in its stores and restaurants.

Jim Litvack believes that he owes his job in his chosen field to the ADA. Litvack, who is deaf, works as an independent living counselor. At work he has the accommodations he needs--a light on his telephone that flashes when someone is trying to page him, a TDD, and access to an interpreter.

A service for people with hearing impairments that is mandated by the ADA is the relay. And its benefits are far-reaching. For Bruce Bucci, the relay has transformed his family. The deaf son of deaf parents, Bucci described the pressure on his hearing brother to make all the family's phone calls, explain everything that was happening on TV, and be the interpreter in situations that were too difficult for a child to handle. "It was often very confusing," said Bucci through an interpreter. But today things are different. "We're all independent now. We don't have to depend on my brother to do things for us." The ADA, Bucci explained, has made people with hearing impairments more powerful and has given them privacy.

Andrew Knight, also deaf, credits the ADA with opening doors for him personally and professionally. "I can call the hospital, fire department, and rescue squad," he said. "And I can call a relative to wish them a happy birthday!" Knight also uses the relay in his work. The manager of a senior citizen center, Knight has found the relay vital to daily operations. "I was able to make requisitions and reservations, secure entertainment, order supplies, communicate with City Hall, and call the police in an emergency, and make appointments for meetings." He was also able to use the relay to make confidential calls regarding an employee. Knight believes he would not have gotten the job if it were not for the relay.

Another important benefit of the ADA is increased access to transportation. "Public transportation in Rhode Island is excellent for the handicapped," stated Edward Schroeder, and others agreed.

Intercity travel is also easier. Beth Wilson is happy that when she travels, she no longer has to bring along her accessibility supplies--FM equipment, a special alarm clock, her phone flasher, her amplifier, and a smoke alarm. "Quite a load and quite a battle at the airport," she laughed. Now when Wilson checks into a hotel, she just asks for the hearing impaired kit.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• The relay has made a huge difference in the lives of deaf people and their families and friends.
• Transportation has become more accessible and more readily available.
• People without disabilities are more cooperative and willing to help people with disabilities.
• Many stores make shopping scooters available to customers who need them.
• More hotels are accessible.
• Children with disabilities have been able to participate more fully in activities other children take for granted.
• Assistive technologies have opened doors of access for many with disabilities.

SOUTH CAROLINA SUMMARY REPORT
FEBRUARY 9, 1995

Host organization: South Carolina Protection and Advocacy for the Handicapped, Inc.
NCD Member: Marca Bristo, Chairperson

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in South Carolina?

South Carolinians reported that the ADA has made a difference in very positive ways. Some explained that the Act is good for business, while others addressed greater accessibility in transportation, and increased opportunities for people with hearing impairments to participate in mainstream American life.

There are many examples of businesses benefiting from the ADA, according to Chip Harraford. Director of the South Carolina Assistive Technologies Project, Harraford described a program established by a local lending institution to help people with disabilities get assistive technology devices, especially those that would make employment or education possible. "This program," said Harraford, "means more business for the lender, and it's a direct result of the ADA." And the program relies on no state or federal funds, according to Harraford.

Wes Gibbs, who chairs the Disability Subcommittee for the Mayor of Columbia, agrees that the ADA is good for business. "All 10 Taco Bell stores in the area are accessible, thanks to the attitude of their owner," said Gibbs. He explained that he and Taco Bell owner Fred Katowski visited all 10 stores to determine exactly what was needed to make each accessible. "Katowski saw this as a good, no-nonsense approach to improving his business," said Gibbs. The ADA is landmark legislation, Gibbs believes.

Not only is the ADA good for business, some said, but it often costs businesses very little to comply. According to Rena Burnside of South Carolina Protection and Advocacy for the Handicapped, Inc., "people are often surprised that the cost to comply with ADA is so low." She cited one hotel owner who worried that bringing his facility into compliance would be very costly. "He was pleasantly surprised when he learned how inexpensive the changes would actually be."

Some employers deserve high marks for their efforts to comply with ADA and meet the needs of employees with disabilities. Home Depot, a retailer with outlets across the country, was praised by employee Jeff Miller, a wheelchair user. "When I started working at Home Depot, I was asked what could be done to make the store accessible for me and for others as well," explained Miller. "At my request, the cash register was modified so that I could operate it."

Another employer that drew praise was the South Carolina Electric and Gas Company. "They are ahead of the bell curve in ADA compliance," stated Lewis Stephens, a wheelchair user who has worked for the company for a decade. "Even before the ADA, the company made an effort to accommodate me," says Stephens. "But since the ADA, it has been even better. The ADA is great for all disabled people in the United States," he said.

Reasonable accommodations called for in the ADA can make all the difference. Donald Bird, whose fiancee works in a bank, said that she has access to an interpreter on the job. "Without the interpreter," he said, "she could not have retained her job and continued to improve in her work."

Employment helps people with disabilities to achieve independence, as well as providing them with a paycheck that makes them self-supporting. Maureen Arnett is proud that her 29-year old son who has autism is holding down a job. "He lives with two other young men, one mentally retarded, and one visually impaired," she said. "And all are working."

Barriers to career choices are also falling, as a result of the ADA. One unidentified woman stated that "before the ADA, medical universities in South Carolina could exclude people based on their disability." But today the woman, who is a wheelchair user, is studying occupational therapy at the Medical University of South Carolina. "And when I graduate, I'll be working and paying taxes," she said.

Fortunately, in addition to increasing opportunities in employment, the ADA is also helping people with disabilities to get to their jobs. "Access to transportation is the single greatest impact of the ADA," proclaimed David Reeves of the Disability Action Center in Columbia. "Before ADA, we had no transportation at all."

Maxie Turner is also excited about her increased access to public transportation. "Because of the ADA I can now ride the bus," she said. "I'm so excited, I feel like a child with my first bike!"

Before the ADA, access to transportation for people with disabilities was considered a luxury, according to Michelle Busick, Marketing Director for Santee Regional Transit Authority. "Now we know that transportation is a necessity if people are to go to work and participate in society," she said. Santee operates buses that carry as many as five wheelchairs, and more buses that are accessible have been ordered. And Santee staff members meet quarterly with users of paratransit to discuss the adequacy of the service. "We keep a list of people who couldn't get to work before but are able to now," Busick stated. She mentioned one man who had told her that without this transportation he would not be able to go to work and feel confident.

The law's provisions for accessibility in transportation and public accommodations are allowing people with disabilities to partake more freely of entertainment, shopping, and other community activities. Most new stores have plenty of parking for people with disabilities, according to Judy Arplaster, whose disability makes standing, walking, and climbing stairs difficult. And an unidentified speaker said she has noticed that small businesses are likely to be receptive to making changes for accessibility. "Ninety-nine per cent of the time, all we need to do is make someone aware of inaccessibility," she said, "and they want to try to do something about it."

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of the ADA is the relay service, which allows people who cannot use a traditional telephone because of a hearing or speech impairment to communicate with people who use traditional telephones. "I used to come home from work at lunch to make my husband's phone calls," says Linda Van Nusen, whose husband is speech impaired. "The relay enables him to make his own calls," she says. Van Nusen, who uses a wheelchair, comments that "the ADA is a great law."

Finally, the impact of ADA extends beyond U.S. borders, according to an unidentified speaker. An athlete who uses a wheelchair, she explained, "I compete in wheelchair sports internationally, and people I compete with are so impressed with the ADA. They want to get their own governments to do what our government is doing."

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• The ADA is good for business. Making a few accommodations often increases business.
• Some businesses and employers in the area are doing a great job in implementing the ADA.
• The telecommunications relay service is a great help to people with hearing impairments.
• The increase in parking spaces for people with disabilities has made access to stores, employment, and other facilities much easier.
• South Carolinians with disabilities are experiencing an increased sense of citizenship and empowerment.

SOUTH DAKOTA SUMMARY REPORT
JUNE 8, 1995

Host organization: Western Resources for dis-ABLED Independence
NCD Member: Debra Robinson

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in South Dakota?

South Dakotans spoke enthusiastically about the difference the ADA has made in their lives, in terms of access to a variety of places and activities, greater opportunities in employment, and accessible transportation. Several also spoke about an intangible benefit of the ADA--increased self-confidence.

The ADA has brought about access to a wide range of public accommodations. Terresa Thompson gave an example of a restaurant in Starfish. "At first the owner struggled against becoming accessible because he feared the cost would be way too much," she said. But after working with several people in the disability community, the owner made the necessary changes, Thompson explained. "He is now extremely excited about the changes that he has made because it has increased his business." The restaurateur's efforts were acknowledged by Western Resources for dis-ABLED Independence when the organization presented him with its Barrier-Basher award.

Thompson also told NCD that her church has become accessible since the ADA went into effect. "Now there are about 10-15 people with various disability types that are attending the church," she stated. Churches, by the way, are not covered by the ADA, but Thompson's church is one of many that is making accessibility changes so that members and potential members with disabilities will not be excluded.

Pam High reported that her town of Sturgis has put in curb cuts, so that people who use wheelchairs, electric scooters, and walkers can safely move about. High praised her town's government for making sure that the curb cuts are kept clear of ice and snow in the winter.

Even South Dakota's small towns are making accessibility changes. "In my travels through many of the small towns of western South Dakota," explained Lauren Tolberg, "I have noticed more and more small businesses making their bathrooms and parking accessible." While Tolberg acknowledges that much remains to be done, she believes that the changes she has seen reflect a shift in attitude toward people with disabilities.

Recreation is becoming more accessible because of the ADA, Pat Czerny reported. He pointed out that the Black Hills Play House, a major tourist attraction in western South Dakota, has made its performances accessible to the deaf and hearing impaired. "At least one performance of each play presented has sign language interpreters," he said.

One reason buildings are becoming more accessible, explained Hyatt Simpson, is that builders are doing a better job in the design stage. She pointed out that doorways and halls are more often being made wide enough.

Shelly Pfaff is not disabled, but she appreciates the fact that public accommodations are becoming more accessible. Now she is able to enjoy getting together with her disabled friends at restaurants and church. In the past, the only places they could get together were their homes.

While access to public accommodations has allowed people with disabilities to participate in many of the activities able-bodied people take for granted, the importance of employment access cannot be overlooked. And the ADA has made a big difference in that area, many at the Town Meeting said. Don Michlitsch, of South Dakota Services to the Blind and Visually Impaired, commented that he has seen a change in the attitude of employers. They are now more willing to work with disabled employees, he pointed out.

In addition to employers' greater receptivity to employees with disabilities, the ADA provides for reasonable accommodations in the workplace. Venaline Gogue, who works as a store cashier, has a back injury which does not allow her to stand for long periods. But the store owner insisted that she stand while she work, so Gogue requested assistance from South Dakota Advocacy Services. She got help in explaining the ADA to the owner, and a reasonable accommodation was found--a stool for her to use when she needs to sit. Gogue has been able to keep her job and is quite pleased about it. She also reports that she finds people more willing to accept her and her disability since the ADA became law.

Tari Kilian has also benefited from the ADA when it comes to employment. Before the ADA, "employers took one look at my thick glasses and dismissed my abilities altogether," she said. She was also out of luck, she said, because she could not read the computer screen. "I am happy to report that due to the ADA I was provided with an extremely beneficial accommodation," she said. "I was provided a computer program that enhances the print on the screen. This allows me to read and see what I was typing. I no longer have to depend on other workers to complete my work duties." Kilian added that the computer skills she has gained have improved her status in the workplace.

While access to the workplace is vital for most people, being able to get there is also important. And thanks to the ADA, many people with disabilities now have the transportation they need to get to their jobs. Kathy Ertel commented that, thanks to improvements in public transit, she can get to work as well as do other things she needs to do, like grocery shopping.

Public transit has also made a difference to Shelly Schock. "Due to the ADA," she said, "the City of Rapid City has made their transit system accessible, which has allowed me to get to work and maintain my employment."

Sandy Magnavito spoke on behalf of her mother who, before the ADA, could not use public transit in Rapid City because it was not accessible. "But thanks to the ADA and myself advocating on her behalf, she can now use the transit system to go shopping, run errands, and go to doctor appointments," said Magnavito.

Although not as tangible as transportation, work, and public accommodations, the increase in self-confidence reported by many individuals with disabilities as a result of the ADA is important. Scotty Backens spoke for others as well when he commented, "the ADA has given me self-confidence, support, and a boost in self-esteem. It has made me feel like a first class citizen."

Audrey Cherrette remarked that she feels the ADA has allowed people to admit that they have a disability by giving them self-confidence and a sense of support. "They are no longer ashamed about being labeled as a disabled person," commented Cherrette.

And to Laura Moeding, the ADA is for everyone. "It is an act that guarantees all of us the right to equal participation in society," she said simply.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• People with disabilities are making gains in self-confidence and self-esteem.
• Public transit, once off-limits to many people with disabilities, is much more accessible, and people are using it for work, shopping, medical appointments, and other errands.
• Many buildings and community activities are now accessible to people with disabilities.
• Reasonable accommodations in the workplace are making it possible for people with disabilities to be gainfully employed.
• Curb cuts are becoming plentiful. They can now be found in cities and small towns alike.

TENNESSEE SUMMARY REPORT
APRIL 6, 1995

Host organization: Coalition for Tennesseans with Disabilities
NCD Member: Marca Bristo

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Tennessee?

Tennesseans are enthusiastic about the impact the ADA has had on their lives, according to those who participated in Tennessee's Town Meeting. The law has been especially meaningful to families, but businesses have also benefited. Employment opportunities for people with disabilities have increased, and state and county agencies have expanded access at little cost. Transportation has also become more accessible. And for the most part, positive changes have been the result of voluntary action and self-advocacy, rather than legal action.

"Before the ADA was passed, my family couldn't go anyplace together because of my mom's wheelchair," explained Kristopher Hazard, an eight year old. "But now," he says, "many places are accessible, and we can go on outings as a family. I'm glad for the ADA." Kristopher is pleased that his mother can also go places alone. The local bank, the post office, and other places in the community have installed ramps and handicapped parking.

Kristopher's mother Sharon Hazard echoes her son's appreciation of the ADA. Now that the community has become more accessible, she no longer has to ask her children to run errands for her. "My kids are free to be kids. And by increasing accessibility, the ADA has allowed me to be the mom I want to be." Hazard believes the ADA has made significant changes in the lives of people with disabilities. "Definitely in mine," she said.

Another mother also credits the ADA with allowing her child to be a child. Sherry Rademacher, who is deaf, remembers that before the ADA, she had to ask her daughter to make phone calls for her and interpret for her. "Now she can play," said Rademacher. "I don't have to interrupt her any more. We both like it better this way!"

Ian Miller, whose wife Angela has cerebral palsy, is a fan of the ADA. "Since the ADA, so many opportunities have opened up," he said. "Now we can go into any market together without my having to lift Angela over the curb." Miller's consumer habits have been influenced by the ADA. "Even when Angela is not with me," he says, "I try to patronize accessible places. If I have a choice between a place that is not accessible and one that is, I'll choose the one that is."

In addition to families, businesses have also benefited from the ADA. Two restaurant owners testified that making their restaurants accessible was a wise business decision. Jock Lijoi first began to think about making his restaurant accessible when he met the Hazard family, who live in his community. Lijoi built a ramp, a deck, and additional parking. "And people in wheelchairs are not the only ones who benefit from the changes. We are in a tourist area, and there are a lot of elderly people as well as young people with strollers who take advantage of the ramp," he said. Lijoi is setting aside money to redo the bathrooms and offer Braille menus. "I encourage other business owners to go above and beyond the ADA," said Lijoi. "This has increased my business."

Another restaurant owner, Ricky Moore, agrees with Lijoi. "The bridges and ramps we added benefit the business through increased patronage," she said.

Other businesses have also found accessibility good for the bottom line. Paul Gibson manages a large Nashville hotel. "We've improved guest rooms, parking, and have educated staff about the possible needs of disabled guests," he said. The stairs at the entrance to one of the hotel restaurants will be removed, and several guest rooms that are being renovated will connect with non-accessible rooms, for use by people who travel with attendants.

The ADA has made a big difference when it comes to employment, several said. Glen Barr spoke on behalf of "several friends who couldn't come because they're working. Blame the ADA for that!" He described his three friends, successful workers who have disabilities. Then he added, "Employers are seeing advantages to hiring people with disabilities. They are competent employees, enthusiastic and productive. My friends and I appreciate the ADA," he said.

Diane Coleman described how an employer was able to retain a valued employee, in spite of her disability. Coleman, the Co-Director of the Technical Access Center in Middle Tennessee, related that a hospital had been pleased with its medical transcriptionist for many years. When she began to lose her sight, the hospital approached the Center for help. The hospital learned about screenreading software and voice synthesizers and acquired the equipment, so that the employee could continue her work.

Kenton Dickerson of the Chattanooga Independent Living Center stated that he has placed 54 people with disabilities in jobs. In addition to being productive citizens, these people have contributed $91,000 in taxes to their local, state, and federal governments.

The state government in Tennessee has hired many people with disabilities, and the cost of accommodation has been low. "More than half the accommodations cost nothing at all," reported James Davis, the state ADA Coordinator. For those accommodations that did cost money, the average cost was $206, according to Davis.

Part of making community activities accessible is transportation. Susan Stacy praised the improvements the city of Knoxville has made in public transportation to comply with the ADA. "In 1992 paratransit was restricted to medical trips," said Stacy."I couldn't use it to get to job interviews. Now I can take it almost anywhere. I can take my three year old to a movie, a store, etc." Saturday hours have been added, she said, and the service is widely used.

One of the most successful aspects of the ADA is that most of the improvements that have taken place have been made voluntarily. Many citizens have self-advocated, but few have resorted to legal action. Wynelle Carson is typical. Although she was vice president of her local arts guild, she had to enter through the back door. She requested a ramp at the front door and got it. Larry Breneman is also typical. He, along with others, wrote letters to a local grocery store requesting ramps and parking for people with disabilities. Their requests were honored. Breneman also asked for and got an elevator installed in the city hall after he told officials that being carried to the second floor for city council meetings was unacceptable to him and that it presented a liability problem for the city.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Making accessibility improvements can be good for business.
• Many business owners are looking for information about how to make their facilities accessible at a reasonable cost.
• Many restaurants and hotels are now accessible.
• Workplace accommodations are usually inexpensive. And a willingness to make accommodations attracts quality employees.
• In many cases, modifications made to benefit people with disabilities benefit people without disabilities as well.

TEXAS SUMMARY REPORT
FEBRUARY 22, 1995

Host organization: Texas Governor's Committee on People with Disabilities
NCD Member: Mary Raether

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Texas?

The ADA has positively affected the lives of a great many Texans, especially in employment, but also in terms of increased access to higher education and a variety of other activities.

Brian Smith, who is blind, is the Assistant Vice President for Personnel at NationsBank in Dallas. NationsBank, he said, is committed to complying with the ADA by making reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities. In fact, the company has established a separate cost center, so that managers are free to base their hiring decisions on skill, education, and experience, rather than on the cost of accommodation. "Besides," Smith pointed out, "the average cost of accommodation at NationsBank has been less than $200." Smith credits the ADA for the employment opportunities available to him. "The ADA opened doors for me to use my education and experience to get a good job and to do what I was trained to do," he said.

Robert Langford agrees that the ADA has made an important difference when it comes to employment. "The ADA," he says, "has given people with disabilities the opportunity to compete in the marketplace for employment." And thanks to reasonable accommodations called for by the ADA, "people with disabilities can get the equipment they need to work side by side with their non-disabled coworkers," said Langford.

The DFW Airport has embraced the ADA. Before the ADA was passed, according to Kimberly Bunting, of the Dallas Mayor's Committee, the airport used arbitrary methods to reduce the number of applicants it considered for employment. With the ADA, arbitrary barriers to employment were removed. "DFW Airport reports that they are finding better applicants than before and would like to hire more people with disabilities," reported Bunting.

Bunting also cited a Dallas hotel that has gone far beyond the law's requirements to become an accessibility leader in the hotel industry. This hotel, Bunting explained, expects to recoup its costs through additional business that will come from being an accessible site for conferences, meetings, and other events.

Citizens from several communities reported that public awareness where they live is increasing as a result of the ADA and that physical barriers are falling in their communities. "It used to be that I couldn't go into public facilities with my hearing dog," said Lee Neal, who is hearing-impaired. "Now all the police in Mesquite are trained to be aware of service animals." Neal believes the training is a result of increased awareness of disabilities, brought about by the ADA.

"Many physical barriers have been removed in Fort Worth and Arlington," related David Gentry, a computer software engineer. "These changes, a result of the ADA, are allowing me to get out in the community and be part of things," stated Gentry.

Johnny Martinez started at the University of North Texas in 1990 when the ADA was enacted. Since then, "UNT has installed automatic doors, elevators, curb cuts, and other accommodations that make education much more accessible," said Martinez. The ADA has also made faculty members more aware of disabilities, according to Martinez, and "professors are now more willing to accommodate students with disabilities."

"We are more visible now than we were before the ADA," said Martinez, "thanks to the removal of barriers brought about by the ADA." Martinez believes that as more people with disabilities become more visible to the rest of society, public acceptance will grow.

The Texas state government is working hard to comply with the ADA by making all of its activities accessible. Joe Bontke, Training Coordinator at the Southwest Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center, described how even the state lottery is being used as a tool to get businesses to comply with the ADA. "We asked all 8,000 lottery ticket vendors if they are accessible. Most said yes, but many actually were not," said Bontke. Bontke's organization is providing assistance to those that are not yet accessible. Vendors have incentive to comply, since they get 1% of the money when they sell the winning ticket. "But vendors have to pass an ADA audit in order to get the money!" said Bontke.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers.

• Attitudes, the major barrier to people with disabilities, have improved.
• Opportunities in employment and education for people with disabilities have expanded.

UTAH SUMMARY REPORT
MAY 3, 1995

Host organization: Utah Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities
NCD Member: Mary Raether

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Utah?

Utahns expressed enthusiasm for the impacts the ADA has had on their lives. In public accommodations, in employment and transportation, the ADA had made a positive difference, several said. Others describe the many state and local government services that have been made accessible. And the ADA was also hailed as an effective tool for self-advocacy and for the awareness it has brought about among the public.

The area of the ADA's greatest impact, according to most of the speakers, is in the area of public accommodation. Ricki Landers, of the Utah Independent Living Center, pointed out that shopping malls and entertainment establishments are much more accessible, thanks to the ADA. And sporting activities have also become more accessible, she said. Landers expressed appreciation for the incentives that help business owners to make their establishments accessible.

Restaurants have become more accessible, commented Gordon Richins of Options for Independence. Richins, who uses a wheelchair, offered special praise for The Village Inn, a new restaurant in Logan. "I can park near the building, and I can easily get inside," he said. "And once in the restaurant, I have plenty of room to maneuver," he explained. I don't feel downgraded when I go there." People without disabilities can little imagine how degraded a person with a disability may feel when he or she cannot get into a restaurant, a bathroom, an office, or any other place everyone else can use without even having to think about it.

In addition to the many improvements in access to public places, the ADA has also expanded employment options for people with disabilities. Arlene Thomas, of the Utah Independent Living Center, commented that employers are becoming more aware of what people with disabilities can do and are more willing to hire them.

The Utah state government is assisting with the implementation of the ADA's employment provisions. Anna Jensen, Director of the Industrial Commission of Utah's Labor Division, explained that her office has instituted an Alternative Dispute Resolution program that helps employers and employees become better educated about the ADA and its requirements. "Alternative Dispute Resolution has been particularly effective in educating employers as to what are considered reasonable accommodations," she said. "Through the Division's educating employers and employees about the ADA," Jensen added, "people with disabilities have been able to have greater job satisfaction and possibilities."

Of course access to public transportation is an essential ingredient in making employment, as well as a host of other daily life activities, available to people with disabilities. "The Utah Transit Authority has ordered only buses with lifts since August 1990," commented Barbara Toomer of the Disability Rights Action Committee. "Now 85% of all routes are accessible," she said. And Orion III buses have been ordered to strengthen Salt Lake City's paratransit program, Toomer explained. "On the whole, I really think the ADA has helped people a great deal," Toomer added.

Several speakers noted major improvements in the accessibility of services provided by state and local governments. Barbara Toomer described the state government's efforts to remodel state office buildings. The capital building has been renovated, an effort that included overhauling cafeteria bathrooms. "After all," commented Toomer, "as one of our members pointed out to the facilities manager, "Didn't your mother tell you to wash your hands before eating?"

One particular state service that has been made accessible is the Utah bar exam. Holly Foster, an attorney with the Legal Center for People with Disabilities in Salt Lake City, explained that the State Bar had taken the position that it would only provide one type of accommodation, regardless of a person's disability. But Foster's office helped a disabled individual with a different disability obtain the accommodation necessary to take the exam, and she passed it. "I feel that with that one victory, we have educated the Bar regarding their obligations to accommodate," remarked Foster, "and we have seen a change in this policy which will affect all future candidates with disabilities who sit for the Bar in Utah."

Salt Lake City launched a creative effort to expand the number of curb cuts the city could afford to make. Through "Access Salt Lake," businesses purchase curb cuts and are recognized for their purchase with a plaque bearing their name. Profits from the curb cut sales, reported Barbara Toomer, are used to augment community development block grant funds targeted for curb cuts in residential areas.

Arlene Thomas noted county and municipal services that have been made accessible as a result of the ADA. "Libraries in Davis County are being made accessible for people with disabilities," she said. And Sunset City is working to make its buildings and parks accessible, Thomas explained.

Perhaps even more valuable than the ADA's specific provisions is the law's effectiveness as a tool that people can use to advocate on their own and others' behalf. Barbara Toomer, explained that after the Mayor of Salt Lake City did not act on repeated requests to make municipal facilities accessible, "approximately 35 people with disabilities showed up in the Mayor's office demanding that the city comply with the federal law." Since that meeting, according to Toomer, the Mayor has worked closely with citizens with disabilities to increase access to municipal services and facilities. "We were consulted when the airport authority examined their facility for access," she said. And Toomer and others were also consulted in the planning of a new baseball field.

Finally, the awareness brought about by the ADA has made many people with disabilities feel more respected. People are becoming aware that the ADA is a civil rights law, commented Arlene Thomas. "People with disabilities are recognized as people instead of being put aside," she added.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers.

• More public accommodations have been made accessible to people with disabilities.
• Employment opportunities have expanded for people with disabilities.
• Local and state services routinely offered to non-disabled citizens are becoming accessible to people with disabilities as well.

VERMONT SUMMARY REPORT
APRIL 14, 1995

Host organizations: Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council, Vermont Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Vermont Center for Independent Living
NCD Member: Larry Brown

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Vermont?

Vermonters told NCD that the ADA has made an enormous difference in their lives--in services provided by government entities, and in access to employment and public accommodations. And the relay service, mandated by the ADA, combined with technological advances, have made a world of difference for people who are deaf. In addition, the law formed the basis for lawsuits and zoning changes which have resulted in improved access.

Several speakers talked about how their cities and towns are going to great lengths to make buildings and services accessible to all citizens. David Sagi is President of the Board of Aldermen in Rutland. A wheelchair user for many years, Sagi told those assembled that the building where he now attends aldermanic meetings is a building he could not get into when he was growing up in Rutland. Sagi also explained that when the Rutland Board joined cities all over the country in signing a resolution to oppose unfunded mandates from the federal government, "we added that we don't consider the ADA and other civil rights laws unfunded mandates."

Vermont's state government is also moving diligently toward accessibility, according to Ron Gonyea. "State buildings have instituted levered door handles, ramps, automatic doors, and other changes that make it easier for people," says Gonya. "The ADA is a good law, and it's working," he added.

The ADA is helping people with disabilities to get and keep jobs. "When employers are shown how to make a reasonable accommodation, and they realize it's not a big bucks item," says Tom Pombar, Executive Director of the state Developmental Disabilities Council, "they're usually willing to cooperate."

Kevin Veller, Executive Director of the Vermont Association of Business, Industry, and Rehabilitation reports that she and her staff of job developers notice a major change in job prospects for people with disabilities since the ADA was passed. "Since the ADA, employers know they have an obligation," she says. "And we have better access to employers." Veller went on to describe two situations in which the ADA prevented employment discrimination. In one recent case an employer posted a job opening with her agency. She had a client who was well-qualified for the position and sent his resume to the employer. The employer was pleased with the resume and wanted to interview the applicant right away. "When I told him the individual needs an interpreter who won't be available until next week, I could feel the employer gulp over the phone," Veller said. "While the hiring decision has not yet been made, the employer hung in there. And this never would have happened before the ADA," Veller concluded.

A second story from VABIR involved a client who was interested in pursuing an opening at a bank. "He had never had a job and was unsure whether he could handle the responsibilities," Veller said, "so we were able to work out a trial with the supervisor." The trial went well. The man could perform the essential functions of the job, and the supervisor offered him a position. Then came word from the supervisor's supervisor that he was still 'assessing the matter.' "I explained that my client was savvy about his rights under the ADA, and that back pedaling on the part of the bank after the offer had been made was not a good idea," she said. "They didn't withdraw their offer, and the man is employed."

As essential as access to employment is access to public accommodations. For one St. Johnsbury restaurant, an unfortunate fire brought with it the opportunity to incorporate access into the rebuilt structure. "In rebuilding, they consulted me," said David Timson, an ADA consultant. "They did a beautiful job in making the new restaurant totally accessible," he said. Timson also described an accessible bank in the town. "People in wheelchairs can get in and do their banking business," he said.

Libraries are a vital resource for many, and Sanford Marx, President of the Friends of the Rutland Free Library read a letter from Paula Baker, Librarian, about how the ADA made the facility accessible. Housed in a building that dates back to 1858, the four story library was long on charm but short on access. "By 1987 a ramp was built to the front door and the first floor had an accessible bathroom," Marx read. But lectures and other programs were off limits to people who could not climb stairs. It was the formation of a Mayor's committee to address access that moved the library board to take action, the letter explained. "Officials were consulted, and the voters approved," Marx read, and "ADA-approved, we moved back into a fully accessible building." Baker's letter concluded, "Those people became us, and we became them, which is as it should be."

As in many other states, in Vermont people who are deaf benefit from the ADA in some special ways. "The relay is just amazing!" exclaimed Rene Pellerin through an interpreter. The state Coordinator of Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in the Department of Aging and Disabilities, Pellerin explained that before the ADA, he employed an interpreter two days a week to help him make phone calls to hearing people. But inevitably Pellerin would have to leave a message when he called and then his call would be returned on one of the days when the interpreter was not in. Phone tag was intense, but things are different with the ADA. "The relay has really changed business phone work for deaf people, as well as doctor's calls, etc," commented Pellerin.

Pellerin is also glad to see FM sound systems at movie theaters. "Instead of just dropping my children off at the movies," Pellerin said, "I can go and watch with them."

The ADA helped Pellerin instigate a change that will benefit deaf people all over the country. He explained that he had been offered a very favorable home and car insurance package. "But headquarters turned me down because I'm deaf," he said. Apparently deaf drivers are in a high risk category, even though statistically they are not a greater risk than hearing drivers. Pellerin worked with the state Human Rights Commission to persuade the insurance company to abandon its discriminatory policy against deaf drivers.

The increased access to interpreters that the ADA has helped bring about is appreciated in many settings. But nowhere is it more necessary than in the hospital. Yolande Henry explained that when her husband had a heart attack, the hospital provided an interpreter, and it was a great relief to her. "I could understand everything the doctor said," exclaimed Henry. "I see more provision for interpreters all over, and it's really changing my life," she said.

Sometimes the ADA supersedes local zoning ordinances. Chryss Jones, who works with an independent living center, described an instance in which a woman wanted to put a ramp in her apartment building to accommodate a wheelchair-using tenant. "The ramp would intrude on a setback, explained Jones, "but the ADA technical assistance manual says that zoning may have to be adjusted in implementing the ADA." The ramp was installed.

Jones also cited the owner of a fruit and vegetable stand that had burned down. "He wanted to rebuild it with a wider aisle to accommodate wheelchairs," said Jones, "but then the structure would be so close to an adjacent property as to be a zoning violation. The owner of the other property did not mind, and again the zoning was easily adjusted to make the produce stand more accessible.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Access to interpreters has increased.
• Municipal governments are taking action to make their buildings and programs accessible to people with disabilities.
• Designated parking is much more available, and the spaces themselves are more likely to be wide enough to accommodate a van with a lift.
• Employers are more receptive to hiring people with disabilities.

VIRGIN ISLANDS SUMMARY REPORT
JUNE 19, 1995

Host organization: Virgin Islands Advocacy Agency
NCD Member: Lilly Pollo

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in the Virgin Islands?

Citizens of the U.S. Virgin Islands gathered to tell NCD their stories about the impacts the ADA has had on their lives. The ADA has made a positive difference in employment, and it has empowered people with disabilities to speak up for their rights. And then there are the many small daily life activities that have been enriched as a result of the ADA.

"Before the ADA," commented Camille Ayala of the Virgin Islands Advocacy Agency, "you never saw people with disabilities in the workplace. But now you do," she added proudly. And Astrid Jones, who is hearing impaired, spoke so happily about her part-time position in a store that she drew congratulatory applause from the audience. Vanessa Higginbotham is glad for ramps and other accommodations that allow her to work as well. "I'm just glad to be working," she said. "I'm glad I can get out there and do it."

Another speaker described her friend's success in remaining employed despite her rheumatoid arthritis. "She has a flexible schedule," explained Stephanie Cott-Williams, a member of the Virgin Islands legislature, "so she works when she can, and she rests at home when she has to without fear of losing her job." Cott-Williams added that the ADA "is a valuable tool to improve life for people with disabilities," and she encouraged all those present to make use of this landmark piece of legislation.

Many Virgin Islanders told NCD that the ADA has empowered them as well as others they know to speak up for the rights people without disabilities take for granted. "And people with disabilities are the best advocates for their own needs," stated J.A. Johnson.

Roy Williams's experience illustrates Johnson's point. Speaking through an interpreter, he explained that through the Virgin Islands Advocacy Agency, he was able to get an interpreter to accompany him in court. And he won the case against his employer who had fired him for not showing up for work. Williams had been sick, and his mother had called the restaurant where he worked to explain that he could not come to work because of illness. "The ADA helped me," Williams said. Without it, he would have had a much more difficult time acquiring an interpreter in order to challenge his employer's decision in court.

Jameel Muhammad feels empowered by the ADA, so much so that he is acting in his role as auxiliary police officer to ticket vehicles that are improperly parked in specially designated parking. "We need to make sure the ADA and all disability laws are implemented for all of us," Muhammad added.

Pat Nobbie, the mother of a 10 year old with Down's Syndrome, finds the spirit of the ADA empowering. "The ADA gives us the expectation," she said, "that people with disabilities belong in every area of life. I know my daughter's life will be enhanced by the ADA."

Many in the Virgin Islands testified that their daily lives are richer as a result of the ADA's passage. "I say thank you," said George Flores, who has AIDS. "If not for the ADA, I wouldn't have as wonderful a life as I do. I know, with the ADA, I have certain rights," he commented. "I use them because that's what they're there for." Flores added that "the ADA gives me the ability to be independent."

The ADA is for everyone, stressed Stephanie Cott-Williams. "We don't know when a stroke or a stray bullet or an aneurysm may strike," she said. Those who do not directly benefit from the ADA today may well benefit from it tomorrow.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• The ADA has empowered many people with disabilities to speak up for the reasonable accommodations they need to be fully participating members of society.
• Employment opportunities have expanded since the ADA's passage.
• The ADA offers many benefits, to disabled and non-disabled citizens alike.
• Services for people who are hard of hearing have expanded a great deal. Interpreters and TTYs are much more readily available than they were in the past.

VIRGINIA SUMMARY REPORT
MARCH 7, 1995

Host organization: Endependence Center, Inc.
NCD Member: Larry Brown

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Virginia?

Things have changed for the better as a result of the ADA, Virginians told NCD. Because of improving attitudes about disabilities, many businesses have complied with the law without being prodded. And many other businesses and facilities have responded positively when reminded of their responsibility to comply with the law. Access to employment has improved, as has access to long distance transportation, some said. And there have been other positive changes as well.

An example for other businesses to follow, several said, is the Wal-Mart chain and its policy of making all stores accessible. Juanita Blake rides in her wheelchair to her local Wal-Mart and, once there, has no trouble getting in and doing her shopping. There is always an employee available when a person with a disability needs help in shopping at Wal-Mart, speakers said.

Paul Dodge has found that some stores are willing to accommodate him by having a wheelchair available for him to use when he comes into the store. "I can use my crutches to get to the store," Dodge reported, "and then I transfer to the wheelchair for shopping." Dodge reports a domino effect. "When the owner of one store sees that another store is providing me with a wheelchair, they decide to do it too."

When it comes to prodding businesses and others to make their facilities accessible, it is self-advocacy, not legal action, that has done the job in most cases, reported many Virginians. Gary Lyle explained that a few years ago his neighborhood 7-11 store did not have a ramp. "I went to the manager and asked for one," Lyle said, "and a week later it was there." When Lyle went to a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant, there was a ramp, but a tiny step at the doorway still kept him out. He explained the problem to the manager, and it was soon fixed.

Denise Brown's experience is similar. A few years ago she could not get her wheelchair through the check-out line in a neighborhood grocery store. After she described what she needed, the check-out lane was widened. The same situation existed at a drug store, and the difficulty was solved when she raised the issue to the manager.

Carol Bowen, who gets around on a little motorized "mobie," got results when she told a store owner that she could not shop at his store because the aisles were too narrow for her mobie. "He measured the width of my chair, and then he redid the store," says Bowen. "Now it is completely accessible." Bowen also wanted to be able to get into a roller rink because she had never had a chance to watch her niece and nephew skate. "The owner of the rink put in a ramp, and I was the first to use it," Bowen said.

Until recently Joseph Moss, who is quadriplegic, had to travel to a YMCA 30 miles from his home to obtain the water therapy he needs. So when his own town of Abingdon planned to build a recreation center, Moss and others with disabilities participated in the planning to ensure that ADA standards would be met. "But when the building was completed, and we saw that the lift for the pool was an old-time, hard to use, hydraulic lift, we explained that we needed an automatic lift," he said. "Immediately the town bought the type of lift we recommended," Moss stated.

While self-advocacy efforts are often highly effective, sometimes a little legal muscle is needed to bring about accessibility. For example, when Ken Paris moved to Portsmouth two years ago, he found that the nearest medical supply store was not accessible. When Paris spoke with the store owner, he was told that the owner had been trying to get the mall in which the store is located to install a ramp and handicapped parking spaces. Moss then contacted the city government and was told that because of the age of the shopping center, it could not be required to install a ramp or accessible parking. Moss wrote a letter informing the shopping center manager that the center was not in compliance with ADA accessibility guidelines. He then heard from the shopping center that an ADA-experienced contractor had been found. Today that shopping center is equipped with a ramp and handicapped parking.

In addition to shopping and services, employment has also become more accessible, thanks to the ADA. "Had I not known the ADA law I wouldn't have a job now," said William Anthony Howard, a teacher assistant in Norfolk. When an injury left him in a wheelchair and he lost his school custodial job, Howard sought to be rehired. "The school system stalled, even when I met their long list of requirements," Howard recounted. He then contacted the Endependence Center and got help advocating for fair consideration. Howard was hired and he enjoys his work with sixth graders. He also believes his presence in the school makes children and adults alike more aware of disabilities.

Travel is another area in which the ADA has made a difference to many. "After years of staying home, I can finally get out of my house and travel," exclaimed Sally Scubin of Hampton Roads. Donald Fennell, who lives in Newport News and uses a motorized wheelchair, is pleased that he can take paratransit to the Amtrak station, and can travel from there to Richmond.

There have been numerous other positive changes in the lives of many Virginians as a result of the ADA. "It's the little things that make a difference," stated Dorothy Akers. She appreciates the fact that crosswalk buttons have been lowered, so that people in wheelchairs can use them. "Attitudes have also improved," she reports. "I can more easily ask for help now and get it." Geronimo Offutt feels he has benefited from the ADA because " I can now go to the library without running into a lot of barriers." And Maureen Hollowell pointed out that county government offices in rural areas have been made accessible.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Self-advocating is usually the most effective way to get businesses to comply with the ADA.
• Access to public transportation and long distance travel has improved.
• People without disabilities are more understanding and are more willing to help people with disabilities than in the past.
• While society was moving in the direction of greater accessibility before the ADA, the pace of positive change has been much more rapid since the ADA.

WASHINGTON SUMMARY REPORT
APRIL 26, 1995

Host organization: Governor's Committee on Disability Issues and Employment
NCD Member: Mary Raether

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Washington?

A number of Washingtonians told NCD about the many positive ways in which the ADA has affected their lives. Individuals addressed travel--long distance as well as local, the increased accessibility of many communities, and the ADA's impact on the employment of people with disabilities.

Paul Wysocki spoke with delight about the trip he and his wife made in January to Hawaii. "Our 10 days there were great," he said. "The tour buses and trolleys all had lifts, and it felt good to be able to travel like anyone else." Wysocki also pointed out that since the ADA has made people more aware of disabilities, airline passengers arriving at the Seattle-Tacoma airport can easily get an accessible van to nearby hotels.

Cindy Campbell, who traveled for her job before the ADA was enacted, says the difference in hotels' accommodation of deaf people has improved markedly. "Back then the hotels didn't provide flashing lights, vibrating alarm systems, portable smoke detectors, or close captioned TV," says Campbell. Now most of the hotels and motels where Campbell stays are well equipped. "I can watch TV in a hotel, and I feel safe. If there's an emergency, I'll find out about it," Campbell says. "I don't know where we'd be without the ADA," she added. "Deaf people and people with other disabilities have benefited greatly from it."

Communities are much more accessible than they were not long ago. John Evans, who was raised in rural, eastern Washington, is deaf and has two brothers with disabilities. "When we were growing up, we rarely saw anyone else with a disability," says Evans. His little town of Chelan had no curb cuts, or any other accommodation for anyone with a disability. "But when I go back there now," Evans says, "I see curb cuts, ramps, the relay service, etc. It's a different place."

Seattle, though far different in size than Chelan, has also changed with the ADA and the rise in disability consciousness. Melissa Kurtz related a story which demonstrates that, despite unexpected barriers, she was still able to make her way in her city independently. Last fall President Clinton came to Seattle for a rally. Kurtz was eager to attend and carefully planned her route. She would park her accessible van in a designated parking space near the Monorail and ride it to a site near the rally where a friend would meet her with her ticket to the event. "When I got to the Monorail, it wasn't operating, for security reasons, but then I couldn't get my van either because it was in an area that had been roped off." Kurtz's only chance to see the President was to wheel her chair to the rally, more than a mile away. Could she do it? Yes, if there were enough curb cuts. "I prayed for curb cuts," she said. "And they were there all the way. I made it!"

Towns all over the state have become more accessible, reports Dianne Grace. "I travel around the state for my job," she says, "but I couldn't do it if it weren't for the ADA. Grace is especially thankful for curb cuts and accessible bathrooms in the towns she visits for her work. "Twenty years ago none of these accommodations existed," she said.

Another individual reported that he is able to do his job because of curb cuts and improvements in transportation. "In my work I transport myself 15-20 miles a day in my power chair," says Jeff Grace. "But I wouldn't be able to go one block without curb cuts. They're a direct result of ADA." Grace also takes 10 different buses on an average day, all lift-equipped. "And fortunately most of the buildings I need to visit for my work are accessible," Grace noted. "The ADA has allowed me and many others with disabilities to become taxpayers."

Thanks also to the ADA, reasonable accommodation is no longer a nicety but a necessity, Melissa Kurtz explained. "When I need to request an accommodation, the answer does not depend on whether my boss has had a good day or a bad day," she explained.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Communities are becoming much more accessible to people in wheelchairs, thanks to curb cuts, accessible bathrooms, and improvements in transportation.
• People who are hearing impaired have far more access to various activities that others take for granted--going to movies, ordering a pizza, and talking on the phone, to name a few.
• People with disabilities have been effective in using the ADA to advocate for accessibility.

WEST VIRGINIA SUMMARY REPORT
MARCH 9, 1995

Host organization: Mountain State Centers for Independent Living
NCD Member: Jack Gannon

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in West Virginia?

All who spoke at West Virginia's Town Meeting expressed appreciation for the ADA. Greater access for people with visual disabilities, improved employment opportunities, and efforts by businesses and municipalities to make facilities accessible were some of the outstanding impacts described by presenters.

"The ADA has made a lot of things possible for me that were not possible before," said Willis Saunders, a social worker at Huntington State Hospital. Saunders, who is blind, credits the ADA with giving him access to electronic devices that help him do his job. "I also have access to materials in Braille, so I can keep current with the latest information," he said.

Ninetta Garner agrees that things have gotten better for people with visual impairments. Garner, who teaches at the West Virginia School for the Blind, notices in her travels across the state that "Braille restaurant menus have become more common, and hotels and motels are using better signage." While public transportation is very limited in her area of northeast West Virginia, the area transit authority publishes its schedules in both Braille and large print. "And the large print schedules help senior citizens, as well as people with visual impairments," stated Garner.

Michelle Douglas, who is visually impaired, is pleased with the change in awareness since the ADA's passage. When Douglas moved to Beckley not long ago, she went to a bank to apply for a loan to buy a home. "I was well treated," said Douglas. "Staffers were accommodating and were willing to read everything aloud to me."

Strides have also been made in employment, thanks to the ADA. Jerry Ramsey, who is autistic, credits the ADA with making him aware of the availability of supported employment "and how people with disabilities can get jobs with the help of job coaches."

Amber Glass, an interpreter in southern West Virginia, related that in her area "20-30 people are working who may not have been without the ADA." These people have found meaningful work in supported employment. Glass commended the federal government for passing the ADA, adding that she has seen positive changes in West Virginia as a result. "The ADA is enabling people to speak out for compliance, and it's working," she said.

Tony Miralles has faced extensive discrimination in his search for employment, despite his Masters Degree in Social Work. He has cerebral palsy, and it took more than 50 interviews to finally land a job. But Miralles is not discouraged. "With the passage of the ADA, Title I presents a glimpse of hope for a person with a disability of being assessed for a job on an equal basis. Someday I might have a chance to work in a non-disabled agency," he said.

The ADA has also offered hope of employment to David Stewart. His chronic illness and pain made it hard for him to hold down a job, "but then the ADA came along, and it bolstered my efforts," he said. Stewart, who is also involved with the independent living movement, praised the ADA for giving him an opportunity to work, as well as a way to help others.

Several speakers commented that businesses are working to make their facilities more accessible. "Lots of businesses in Huntington are remodeling in order to comply with the ADA," stated Mike Kolasa, an independent living center consumer. "And new buildings are being constructed with accessibility in mind," he said. Kolasa notices that salespeople are becoming much more aware of and willing to help people with disabilities.

Kevin Smith agrees that more public accommodations are being made accessible. "Since the ADA became law," he said, "my doctor has had a ramp built to her office."

The City of Morgantown has set up a schedule for the implementation of its ADA transition plan, explained Ken Ervin, who works with the West Virginia University-affiliated Center for Developmental Disabilities. "As a result of the ADA," he said, "we've had the opportunity to educate many people and to work with many people."

Other West Virginia town governments have put in curb cuts, remodeled municipal buildings, moved government offices to accessible buildings, and consulted with people who have disabilities about how best to increase access.

While much remains to be done throughout the state to expand access, the speakers were hopeful. They believe the ADA is the tool they need to advocate effectively for greater accessibility. "The ADA is the best thing that ever happened to people with disabilities," exclaimed Jim Farrar.

Rachel Stewart maintains that the ADA is for everyone, that no one knows when he or she may become disabled. "I went from being able-bodied in one month to having a significant disability that took two years of medication and surgery until I could become employed," she commented.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• More and more businesses have been making their facilities accessible.
• Local governments have been working to make their buildings and services accessible to all.
• The potential of the ADA for positive change is very great.
• The ADA offers hope to many with disabilities that they can become employed.
• The attitudes of non-disabled people have become more helpful and understanding.
• Many people, with and without disabilities, have been educated about the need to remove barriers to the full participation in society of people with disabilities.

WISCONSIN SUMMARY REPORT
APRIL 13, 1995

Host organizations: Governor's Committee for People with Disabilities
NCD Member: Bonnie O'Day

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Wisconsin?

The enthusiasm of those who testified at Wisconsin's ADA Town Meeting may be summed up in the remark of one college student, "Go ADA!" People especially praised the improvements they have seen in public accommodations, and many spoke about the increased awareness of disabilities on the part of state and local officials and the growth in self-confidence among people with disabilities themselves. And some spoke about employers who are willingly complying with the ADA.

Overall, "the attitude of retail and commercial managers has been good," stated Chuck Schmidt in written testimony. He believes that after learning about ADA's purpose and how compliance can usually be achieved with minimal cost, businesses usually comply.

Before the ADA, Shelley Peterman Schwarz related, she could never go shopping. Heavy doors, steps, and a lack of designated parking kept her out of most stores. "I couldn't even shop with my daughter for her first prom dress," related Schwarz. "But things have changed, and I recently did shop with my daughter to buy clothes for her job interview!" she said.

A Milwaukee ice skating rink was recently made accessible, and it was easy to do, reports Monica Murphy, an attorney with the Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy. Murphy described a large skating facility, with a rink surrounded by a track used by speed skaters. Getting to the rink, she explained, required going downstairs to get under the track and then climbing more steps up to the rink. "There were kids who wanted to use the rink," said Murphy, "who couldn't navigate the stairs. We arranged with the manager to allow them simply to cross the speed skating track, eliminating the barrier of stairs at no cost," she said. "Now kids and others who use wheelchairs can also use the rink, along with everyone else," Murphy said.

A major Madison hotel is doing everything it can to make its services accessible to guests with disabilities, according to Gary Tidmore, Guest Services Manager at the Inn on the Park in Madison, also the site of the Wisconsin ADA Town Meeting. The first time a group came to the hotel and needed equipment for the hearing-impaired, the Inn rented the equipment from another hotel. "Then we purchased our own equipment, with the input of some consumers with hearing impairments," Tidmore said. Today the Inn on the Park is equipped with TTYs, bed shakers, close captioned TV, Brailled menus, emergency evacuation procedures, and a range of wheelchair accessible rooms. "Whenever we book a meeting for an organization, we acquire whatever adaptive equipment is needed if we don't already have it," he said. At the Inn, explained Tidmore, front desk staff are trained in the use of adaptive equipment. "And our business has even increased a little as a result of working with disabilities groups," he said.

Clearly, the ADA has been good for some businesses. And the growing awareness about disabilities in recent years has stimulated entrepreneurs to create new niches. One is custom-made clothing for people with disabilities. In written testimony, Donna Ojeda, owner of Done By Design, described her program that offers onsite tailoring and alterations as well as training to teach tailoring techniques that accommodate a variety of adaptive equipment used by people with disabilities.

A different kind of entity, a monument, was built to be accessible. The Veterans Memorial in Pritchard Park in Racine, dedicated last year, "is completely accessible by design to meet ADA requirements," stated Gus Sorenson, in a letter. Sorenson is Chapter President of the Wisconsin Paralyzed Veterans of America. "I spoke with several people involved in this project," Sorenson continued, "and they said it was by unanimous consent to create it this way."

State and local government officials and their staff are joining businesses in their awareness of the ADA and their efforts to comply with it, several said. Even though prior federal law called for many of the accommodations required by ADA, the ADA has gotten state and local governments' attention in a way Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act never did, explained Dick Pomo of Madison. "Officials know the ADA is not a choice; they must comply," he said.

Paul Yochum, a parent of a child with disabilities and Executive Director of the Governor's Committee, said that he has seen school boards pay much more attention to the ADA than they did to 504. "One reason schools and others are paying more attention to the ADA is that it applies to everyone, not just to recipients of federal funds, as 504 does," said Yochum, who is also a member of his local school board. Yochum further pointed out that several recent referenda on schools have called for reasonable accommodations. "That language wouldn't be there if it weren't for the ADA," he said. Yochum believes the ADA has given school systems a better understanding of their obligations under 504.

Several speakers expressed gratitude to the ADA for their increased self-confidence. "A weight was lifted from my shoulders when the ADA passed," commented Ken Adell, a student at the University of Wisconsin. "The ADA has given me the confidence," he said, "that if I work hard and succeed in school, I can expect to find a good job." Even though Adell had rehabilitation legislation backing him when he entered college in 1987, until the ADA passed he worried that no one would hire him after graduation. "Now I know they will," he said.

"The ADA's done a lot for my mental attitude about approaching employers," stated Jerry Vogt of Madison. "I know you can't legislate confidence, but in a way ADA's done that for me," he said.

Employment, of course, is a major concern to people with disabilities, as it is to most people. And many employers are helping people with disabilities to enable them to use their skills on the job. Wendy McLaughlin related in a letter that as a deaf employee at McDonald's from 1993-1995, her request for an interpreter at crew meetings was willingly granted. McLaughlin reports that the interpreter was indispensable in enabling her to understand what was going on and also helped her and her coworkers get to know each other better. "My managers used our state telephone relay services to contact me if they needed my help so they wouldn't have to struggle to contact me without the benefit of a relay," McLaughlin wrote.

The Inn on the Park changed its job description for every position in the hotel after meeting with disability advocates to learn what the hotel needed to do to comply with the ADA in its hiring practices, Gary Tidmore explained.

When it comes to hiring practices, people with psychiatric disabilities are finding that employers are willing to work with them to accommodate their needs, stated Tracy Boldt of the Wisconsin Council on Mental Health. "Some people with psychiatric disabilities need to rearrange work hours, and many employers are working with us on it," Boldt stated.

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• Attitudes toward people with disabilities are improving.
• People with disabilities are becoming more self-confident.
• Compliance with earlier civil rights legislation for people with disabilities is increasing because of the ADA.
• Many businesses are willingly making accommodations to people with disabilities.
• Local and long distance transportation available to people with disabilities has improved.
• The relay service has greatly expanded communications opportunities for people with hearing impairments.

WYOMING SUMMARY REPORT
JUNE 2, 1995

Host organization: Governor's Committee for the Employment of People with Disabilities
NCD Member: Rae Unziker

What Has the ADA Meant to Citizens in Wyoming?

Wyoming residents are enthusiastic about the ADA. In many areas the Act has affected their lives positively, people told NCD. Access to the relay service, to employment, to public accommodations, and to transportation have changed people's lives for the better.

"To me, the ADA means survival," exclaimed Larry Cross, who depends on the relay service for his livelihood. Cross, who lost his hearing in 1981, recounted that the discrimination he faced was so great that he could not find employment. So since no one would hire him, he bought a business, Wyoming Stone Ground Flour. "The relay is what allows me to stay in business," he said. "How far could anyone get in business if they couldn't use the phone?" he asked. "Communication is the name of the game," said Cross, "regardless of the business you're in, and the relay allows me to have that communication."

Dean Kozner agrees about the importance of the relay. "The relay is the number one benefit to deaf people from the ADA," stated Kozner, who has been deaf for most of his life and has felt socially isolated as a result.

While the ADA-mandated relay service has made a big difference to many people, the employment provisions of the ADA have helped level the playing field, so that people with disabilities can become gainfully employed taxpayers. In the mid-1970s Jim Veatch was told that he should become a bookkeeper because he was in a wheelchair. "But I didn't want to be a bookkeeper; I wanted to be an engineer," he said. Much later he did get the engineering training he wanted, and now he works for the Wyoming Department of Transportation. "I have some adaptive equipment," said Veatch, "and I have no difficulty doing my job."

Indeed, most accommodations in the workplace are simple and inexpensive. Betty Rasmussen, who has multiple chemical sensitivities, pointed out that most workplace accommodations cost less than $100.

Some employers have discovered that hiring people with disabilities is good business. Steve Harris described the efforts of United Parcel Service (UPS) to hire people with disabilities. "With a little adaptive equipment," said Harris, "UPS hired people with disabilities even before the ADA and found them to be willing and hard workers." The ADA has provided encouragement and help in the form of tax credits to such companies to continue their efforts to employ more people with disabilities.

Public accommodations are also becoming more accessible, according to Harris, who is blind. "The ADA has opened so many doors for people with visual handicaps," he said. Harris pointed out that Braille signage in buildings helps him a lot. "Now it's much easier to find the room I'm looking for." Harris explained that before the ADA, when he was staying in a hotel, he had to leave something outside his hotel room door whenever he went out, in order to be able to find the right room when he returned. "And I had to hope nobody moved it while I was out!" he said. But with Braille signage, he can find the room he wants without having to leave himself clues.

A simple thing like finding the men's or women's restroom in a building was once an ordeal for Harris, but it is much easier now. "Once I found the restrooms in a building," said Harris, "I had to hang around to try to listen to other people going in and out of the bathrooms, so I could tell which was the men's!" Harris is glad things are changing. "With the ADA," he said, "we don't have to give up life. We just change our lifestyle and go on with life."

Hotels have also become more accessible for Larry Cross. "Thanks to the ADA," he said, "when I stay in a hotel I can hear the phone ring, hear the smoke alarm, and hear a knock at the door." Since many hotels and motels are not yet accessible to people with hearing impairments, Cross makes an effort to educate them. "The ADA has allowed my life to be the kind of life that other people take for granted," Cross said. "It makes everything easier."

Hospitals have also become more accessible, according to Betty Rasmussen. When she needed surgery, she explained in advance to the hospital staff about her chemical sensitivities. "They said they needed a few days to get ready for me," she said. "And everything went fine. They were educated and knew what to do and what not to do." The good treatment she received would not have happened without the ADA, she believes.

People with disabilities are not the only ones who benefit from many accessibility changes, according to Rasmussen. "The design features that are done to make buildings accessible to people with disabilities also make buildings more user-friendly for everyone," she pointed out.

In addition to greater access in public accommodations, transportation is also more accessible than it was before the ADA. Jim Veatch, who lives in Cheyenne, said that public transportation never used to be available, "but now I get to work and home on public transit," he said. Even though Veatch owns an accessible van, he prefers to ride the bus. Air travel has also become easier, even though the ADA does not specifically address it. Before the ADA when Veatch attempted to use the airlines, he was told, "We don't allow your kind on the plane." But today it is different. "When I called the airlines to book a flight to Maryland and I told the agent I use a wheelchair, the reaction was, 'Sure, no problem.'"

Clearly, the ADA is bringing about access of all sorts. "And access must be useful to make a difference," remarked Michael Funkhouser. "The ADA offers access that is truly useful."

Common Threads

The following impacts of ADA's first five years were cited by several speakers:

• The relay service has transformed people's lives, especially in the areas of employment and social contact.
• Employment is becoming more available to people with disabilities.
• Attitudes of non-disabled people have improved a great deal. People are more open to dealing with others who have disabilities.
• Now that people with disabilities are better able to get out into the community, they are successfully advocating for themselves.

APPENDIX A
A Brief Description of the Americans with Disabilities Act

ADA Requirements

An estimated 49 million Americans with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit daily activities are protected under the ADA. These activities include working, walking, talking, seeing, hearing, or caring for oneself. People who have a record of such an impairment and those regarded as having an impairment are also protected. The ADA has the following five titles:

• Title I -- Employment
• Title II-- Public Services (including Public Transportation)
• Title III--Public Accommodations and Services Operated by Private Entities
• Title IV-- Telecommunications
• Title V -- Miscellaneous Provisions

The following is a brief summary of some of the major requirements contained in the ADA statute. To determine all of the requirements that a covered entity must satisfy, it is necessary to refer to the regulations, guidelines, and/or technical assistance materials that have been developed by the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board (the Access Board). In addition, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has developed regulations on the tax relief available for certain costs of complying with the ADA, such as small business tax credits.

Title I--Employment

Title I of the ADA prohibits discrimination in employment against people with disabilities. It requires employers to make reasonable accommodations to the known physical or mental limitations of a qualified applicant or employee, unless such accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the employer. Reasonable accommodations include such actions as making worksites accessible, modifying existing equipment, providing new devices, modifying work schedules, restructuring jobs, and providing readers or interpreters. Title I also prohibits the use of employment tests and other selection criteria that screen out, or tend to screen out, individuals with disabilities, unless such tests or criteria are shown to be job-related and consistent with business necessity. It also bans the use of pre-employment medical examinations or inquiries to determine if an applicant has a disability. It does, however, permit the use of medical examinations after a job offer has been made if the results are kept confidential, all persons offered employment in the same job category are required to take them, and the results are not used to discriminate. Employers are permitted, at any time, to inquire about the ability of a job applicant or employee to perform job-related functions. Under the ADA, the employment provisions took effect on July 26, 1992, for employers with 25 or more employees, and will take effect on July 26, 1994, for employers with 15 or more employees. As required, the EEOC issued its regulations by July 26, 1