The bill amends Section 42-87-2 of the General Laws in Chapter 42-87, which addresses the civil rights of people with disabilities in Rhode Island. It explicitly prohibits discrimination against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities by any person or entity conducting business in the state. The bill includes provisions that ensure if any part of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination based on disability in federally funded programs, is repealed or declared invalid by a federal court or executive action, the protections against discrimination in Rhode Island will continue based on the regulations that were in effect immediately prior to such changes.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the provisions shall be interpreted broadly to maintain the protections for individuals with disabilities under both state and federal law. This legislative action aims to safeguard the rights of people with disabilities in Rhode Island, ensuring that they are not adversely affected by potential changes at the federal level regarding disability discrimination laws. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
887: 42-87-2