Recent Changes in Disability Legislation and What They Mean for You in 2025

Changes in accessibility laws can expand or limit rights, shaping the opportunities available to people with disabilities.

Ever-evolving legislation continues to reshape the landscape of accessibility and expand the legal rights of people with disabilities, including those with mobility challenges. Understanding these changes helps businesses ensure full ADA compliance while advancing the rights of those with disabilities. Let’s take a look at some of the most notable recent legal updates and their potential impact on accessibility.

ADA Amendments: Expanding Definitions and Scope

While several amendments to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) have been proposed over the last few years—including the ACCESS Act and the ADA Improvement Act of 2023—none have yet been enacted into law.

The ACCESS Act, introduced by US Representative Ken Calvert (R-CA), gives noncompliant businesses more time to correct ADA violations before what he calls “shakedown lawsuits” can be filed, allowing businesses to avoid judicial penalties for civil rights infractions and placing a heavier burden of action on people with disabilities, who must notify businesses of violations in writing at the individual’s own expense. Disability rights advocates who oppose the ACCESS Act argue that it attempts to further neutralize ineffective methods of enforcing the ADA, which has already given businesses thirty-five years of advanced notice.   

Court Rulings on Accessibility in Public Spaces

Several recent court rulings have addressed accessibility in public spaces under the ADA. In 2024, a US District Court ruled that businesses operating exclusively online are not obligated to comply with Title III of the ADA. This ruling may influence other judges to reevaluate and potentially shift away from the practice of allowing ADA claims against web-only enterprises.

Current precedents suggest that the ADA still applies to the websites and mobile applications of businesses with physical locations. An earlier ruling requires such businesses to ensure their online platforms are accessible to individuals with disabilities, as these platforms are extensions of their physical stores and are thus considered public places of accommodation. 

Increased Enforcement of ADA Accessibility Standards

Federal agencies have ramped up efforts to enforce ADA accessibility standards, particularly on commercial properties and within public transit systems. In December 2024, the US Department of Transportation adopted the Public Rights-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG), aiming to ensure that public transit infrastructure—such as pedestrian access routes, boarding areas, fare vending machines, and transit shelters—are accessible to people with disabilities. 

While PROWAG is a significant step toward creating more inclusive public spaces, transportation is still rife with disability discrimination, especially among rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft. In 2022, a settlement was reached in a lawsuit alleging Uber violated Title III of the ADA by discriminating against tens of thousands of people with disabilities. While the settlement prompted Uber to modify its policies, advocates and customers report that drivers continue to violate ADA protections and need better education on the legal rights of people with disabilities.  

ADA Litigation: Recent Settlements Addressing Mobility Barriers 

In 2024, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) continued its enforcement of the ADA’s Title III, addressing physical barriers in public places of accommodation to ensure accessibility for people with mobility impairments. For instance, the DOJ reached a settlement with Katz's Deli in New York City over ADA violations, requiring the establishment to pay a $20,000 fine and implement necessary modifications to improve accessibility.

Another significant case involved the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field. In November 2024, the DOJ reached a settlement with the Cubs to address ADA violations related to the stadium's recent renovations. The agreement mandates the addition of wheelchair spaces and companion seats in certain areas, as well as enhanced wheelchair access in others. Accessibility improvements will also be made in parking areas and bathrooms, and staff will undergo ADA training for the next three seasons. 

Expansion of Accessibility Requirements for Housing

A 2019 survey conducted by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) examined American in-home accessibility needs. It found that nearly twenty percent of US households include a person with a disability, but also that a significant portion of these households lack essential accessibility features, such as ramps, lifts, or an entry-level bedroom and full bathroom. The report also noted that only five percent of homeowners planned to make their homes more accessible to people with disabilities in the next two years. 

In April 2023, HUD issued updates to its Section 504 regulations, which prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability in programs and activities receiving federal funding. These updates enhance accessibility requirements for housing developments, ensuring that federally assisted housing is more inclusive for people with disabilities.

While there have not yet been significant changes to the Fair Housing Act or the ADA to address accessibility standards in housing, the HUD survey highlights the need for ongoing efforts to enhance housing accessibility for people with disabilities, particularly within rental properties.

Conclusion

In 2025, anticipated advancements in the ADA’s Title III mostly concern digital accessibility. Ongoing legislative discussions and court rulings on ADA compliance underscore the need for businesses to stay informed and proactive in addressing accessibility needs. 

For people with mobility impairments, these changes equate to a heightened opportunity to advocate for rights and to expect more accessible environments in both public spaces and online platforms. The expansion of accessibility standards in transportation and housing offers further hope for a more inclusive future. While progress continues, advocates must remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring people with disabilities are equipped to navigate and benefit from the evolving legal landscape.

For private entities covered under ADA Title III, the focus remains on removing physical barriers and ensuring effective communication. Businesses are encouraged to review and update their facilities and services to accommodate people with disabilities, aligning with the ongoing efforts to promote inclusivity.

By adhering to ADA standards and advocating for necessary changes in public spaces, we can continue to improve the lives of those facing mobility challenges. Whether you're dealing with arthritis pain, back injury recovery, or daily life in a wheelchair, staying informed about legal changes ensures that you can advocate effectively for your rights.

For more updates on federal efforts to combat disability discrimination, check out the Disability Rights Section News of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division. 

We encourage you to share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments below. Stay informed and involved in the movement for better accessibility.