Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this Minnesota legislative bill is to clarify and amend existing laws related to discriminatory practices in places of public accommodation, specifically focusing on ensuring non-discrimination on the basis of disability. It aims to improve access to facilities, services, and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Main Provisions

• General Prohibitions:

  • The bill specifies that it is discriminatory for public accommodations to deny individuals with disabilities the opportunity to participate in or benefit from the goods and services provided.
  • Accommodations provided must be equal and integrated, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are not offered separate or unequal goods or services unless those are required to ensure the same level of service.
  • The bill mandates the provision of accessible medical equipment to individuals with mobility disabilities, like adjustable-height examination tables and chairs, manual transfer items, and either portable or overhead track lifts.

• Specific Prohibitions:

  • The bill prohibits criteria that screen out individuals with disabilities from accessing services unless such criteria are necessary.
  • It requires reasonable modifications to policies and practices to prevent discrimination, unless such changes would fundamentally change the nature of the service or cause undue burden.
  • Establishments must take necessary steps to prevent the exclusion of individuals with disabilities due to the absence of auxiliary aids and services.
  • The bill demands the removal of architectural and communication barriers where it is "readily achievable," and when it is not, services should be made available through alternative means if those are feasible.

Significant Changes

• The bill amends existing statutes to clearly outline what constitutes discriminatory actions against individuals with disabilities in terms of public accommodations.
• It emphasizes providing necessary and effective accommodations and services, particularly in clinical or healthcare settings, ensuring that facilities are appropriately equipped to support individuals with mobility disabilities.
• It strengthens the legal requirements for providing equal and effective opportunities for people with disabilities, reinforcing the need for integrated settings.

Relevant Terms

• Discrimination
• Disability
• Public accommodation
• Accessible medical equipment
• Reasonable modifications
• Auxiliary aids and services
• Architectural barriers
• Mobility disability