42 USC 12185

U.S Code last checked for updates: Nov 22, 2024

§ 12185.

Study

(a)

Purposes

The Office of Technology Assessment shall undertake a study to determine—

(1)

the access needs of individuals with disabilities to over-the-road buses and over-the-road bus service; and

(2)

the most cost-effective methods for providing access to over-the-road buses and over-the-road bus service to individuals with disabilities, particularly individuals who use wheelchairs, through all forms of boarding options.

(b)

Contents

The study shall include, at a minimum, an analysis of the following:

(1)

The anticipated demand by individuals with disabilities for accessible over-the-road buses and over-the-road bus service.

(2)

The degree to which such buses and service, including any service required under sections 12184(b)(4) and 12186(a)(2) of this title, are readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities.

(3)

The effectiveness of various methods of providing accessibility to such buses and service to individuals with disabilities.

(4)

The cost of providing accessible over-the-road buses and bus service to individuals with disabilities, including consideration of recent technological and cost saving developments in equipment and devices.

(5)

Possible design changes in over-the-road buses that could enhance accessibility, including the installation of accessible restrooms which do not result in a loss of seating capacity.

(6)

The impact of accessibility requirements on the continuation of over-the-road bus service, with particular consideration of the impact of such requirements on such service to rural communities.

(c)

Advisory committee

In conducting the study required by subsection (a), the Office of Technology Assessment shall establish an advisory committee, which shall consist of—

(1)

members selected from among private operators and manufacturers of over-the-road buses;

(2)

members selected from among individuals with disabilities, particularly individuals who use wheelchairs, who are potential riders of such buses; and

(3)

members selected for their technical expertise on issues included in the study, including manufacturers of boarding assistance equipment and devices.

The number of members selected under each of paragraphs (1) and (2) shall be equal, and the total number of members selected under paragraphs (1) and (2) shall exceed the number of members selected under paragraph (3).

(d)

Deadline

(e)

Review

(Pub. L. 101–336, title III, § 305, July 26, 1990, 104 Stat. 360.)

cite as: 42 USC 12185