As a Georgia business owner, you have a legal obligation to provide accessible facilities for customers with disabilities in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA applies to businesses that are open to the public, such as restaurants, stores, hotels, and other places of public accommodation.
Under the ADA, a business is required to make "reasonable modifications" to policies, practices, and procedures, including physical barriers, in order to provide access for individuals with disabilities. This means that you may need to make changes to your physical premises, such as installing wheelchair ramps, accessible parking spaces, and signage that is accessible to people with visual impairments.
If making these modifications would be an undue financial or administrative burden on your business, you may be able to claim an exemption from the ADA requirements. However, it is important to note that the burden to prove an exemption is high, and businesses are generally expected to make every effort to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
To determine the specific modifications that may be required for your business, you should consult with an accessibility expert or an attorney who specializes in disability rights. They can help assess your business's compliance with the ADA and recommend any necessary modifications.
In addition to complying with the ADA, Georgia businesses may also be subject to state and local accessibility requirements. For example, Georgia's building code includes accessibility requirements for new construction and renovations. Additionally, some municipalities in Georgia may have their own accessibility requirements for businesses operating within their jurisdiction.
To ensure compliance with all applicable accessibility requirements, it is important to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can help you identify and meet your legal obligations.
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