Sunshine Law Training Revised to Include New DCAB Language for Disability Access

Posted on Sep 7, 2022 in Featured, Main, What's New

After the State Office of Information Practices (OIP) posted its updated Sunshine Law training materials in August 2022, it was informed that the State Disability Access and Communications Board (DCAB) had approved the following new sample language to request disability accommodation, which should be used on Sunshine Law meeting notices.

 If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability, contact [Name] at [phone number and email address] as soon as possible, preferably by [reply date]. If a response is received after [reply date], we will try to obtain the auxiliary aid/service or accommodation, but we cannot guarantee that the request will be fulfilled.

Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.

Or, if no reply date is provided:

If you need an auxiliary aid/service or other accommodation due to a disability, contact [Name] at [phone number and email address] as soon as possible. Requests made as early as possible will allow adequate time to fulfill your request.

Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.

The reasons for adopting this new language are found in the attached Guidance from DCAB.

OIP has revised the following August 2022 training materials, with the only change being the reference to DCAB’s new sample language:  both Sunshine Law Guides for the State/Counties and Neighborhood Boards; Agenda Guidance; Notice Checklist; and the Shrimp Board “Good Agenda.”  OIP’s revised materials are dated September 2022.

Please note that OIP has no authority to administer or enforce the provisions of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and related legislation.  For any questions about the new guidance or the ADA, please refer to DCAB’s website at https://health.hawaii.gov/dcab/ or contact DCAB at (808) 586-8121 or [email protected].