The proposed "Accessibility Act" aims to enhance the accessibility of state agencies in New Mexico for individuals with disabilities. It establishes the "office of accessibility" within the Department of Health, which will be overseen by a chief accessibility officer appointed by the secretary of health. This office is tasked with creating standardized processes for state agencies to identify and address accessibility challenges in their websites, mobile applications, and physical facilities. Additionally, the office will provide training and support to state agencies on best practices for ensuring digital and physical accessibility.
The bill also mandates reporting requirements for the office of accessibility. By May 1, 2028, and annually thereafter, the office must submit a comprehensive report to the governor and relevant legislative committees detailing the accessibility status of state agency facilities, websites, and mobile applications. This report will include assessments, evaluations of procurement procedures, recommendations for improvements, and progress updates on addressing accessibility barriers. To facilitate this, state agencies are required to submit their own analyses of accessibility efforts and challenges. The bill includes an appropriation of $350,000 from the general fund to support the implementation and administration of the Accessibility Act for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027.