| The Commission is responsible for protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities including coordinating the state compliance with federal and state disability rights laws; providing technical assistance to public and private agencies, businesses, and citizens in complying with those laws; managing the state's ADA/504 Accessibility renovation projects to overcome physical and communication barriers in state-owned facilities; making polling places accessible to individuals with the full range of disabilities; training election officials, poll workers, and election volunteers to promote the access and participation of individuals with the full range of disabilities in elections for Federal office; providing individuals with the full range of disabilities with information about their rights; and investigating disability discrimination complaints involving physical barriers at public or private facilities and ordering corrective action. The Commission also advocates for the adoption of public policies so that each person with a disability is able to reach her/his maximum potential in independence, human development, productivity, and self-sufficiency. The Commission's Disability Business Enterprise program assists small disadvantaged businesses owned by persons with disabilities to win state-funded and state-directed public construction contracts and state contracts for goods and services. The Commission recently started the RI Livable Home Modification Grant program, awarding grants for 50% up to $4,000 of the cost of removing barriers in homes so a family member with a disability can remain in the community. |
