Trenton, NJ – A new bill, aimed at enhancing awareness and compliance with the rights of individuals with disabilities, has been amended and reported favorably. This legislation mandates training for employees of public accommodations and facilities on the rights of individuals with disabilities to have guide or service dogs.
The bill specifies that any employer with one or more employees interacting with customers in public spaces, or having the authority to grant or deny access to such spaces, must provide training about the rights of disabled individuals under State and federal laws. This training is essential for understanding and respecting the legal entitlements of individuals who rely on guide or service dogs.
Employers can fulfill this training requirement through various means. They have the option to use training programs offered at no cost by the Division on Civil Rights in the Department of Law and Public Safety, the New Jersey State Bar Association, or any other entity. Alternatively, employers can choose to develop and implement their own training programs at their own expense.
An additional component of the bill, bolstered by committee amendments, involves the Commissioner of Labor and Workforce Development. The Commissioner is tasked with preparing and distributing a pamphlet that covers the training topics and elaborates on the rights of individuals with disabilities to be accompanied by guide or service dogs.
This bill aligns with Assembly Bill No. 3152, ensuring consistency across legislative efforts. Pre-filed for introduction in the 2024-2025 session, the bill has undergone a technical review and includes necessary changes identified during this process.