This bill aims to expand the Information and Referral Services helpline within the Division of Disability Services in the Department of Human Services. The expanded helpline will assist individuals in planning visits to State and county public facilities by coordinating necessary accommodations for in-person appointments. The staff will provide information on accessibility features such as disability ramps, sign language interpreters, and service animal policies, as well as address accessibility challenges and offer guidance on navigating public spaces. Additionally, State and county public facilities will designate an office to oversee visit accommodations arranged through the hotline, ensuring that the contact information for these offices is publicly available.

To support the implementation of these provisions, the bill appropriates $100,000 to the Division of Disability Services. The Division will also consult with State and county agencies to identify the necessary information and assistance to be provided through the expanded helpline and develop strategies for publicizing the service to ensure that individuals requiring access to public facilities are aware of and can effectively utilize the helpline. The act is set to take effect six months after its enactment.