reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 1 - Accessibility Generally. › Section 21-4-4 - Standards and Specifications for Public Buildings and Facilities - Applicability.

Section 21-4-4
Standards and specifications for public buildings and facilities - Applicability.
(a) The standards and specifications prescribed by the fire marshal, as authorized in this article, shall apply to all buildings and facilities used by the public which are constructed in whole or in part by the use of state, county, or municipal funds, or the funds of any political subdivision of the state. All such buildings and facilities constructed in this state after October 10, 1975, from any one of these funds or any combination thereof shall conform to each of the standards and specifications prescribed therein, and also any standards and specifications prescribed as supplementary thereto, as authorized in Section 21-4-6.
(b) Such standards and specifications shall be adhered to in those buildings and facilities under construction on October 10, 1975, unless a written waiver thereof is issued pursuant to Section 21-4-5. If the authority responsible for the construction determines that the construction has reached a state where compliance is impractical, and applies to the fire marshal or the Director of the Division of Construction Management of the Department of Finance for a waiver, such officer or officers shall issue the requested waiver.
(Acts 1965, No. 224, p. 315, §1; Acts 1975, No. 1210, p. 2524, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 1 - Accessibility Generally. › Section 21-4-5 - Standards and Specifications for Public Buildings and Facilities - Construction and Interpretation; Waivers.

Section 21-4-5
Standards and specifications for public buildings and facilities - Construction and interpretation; waivers.
(a) The State Fire Marshal and the Division of Construction Management of the Department of Finance are each hereby authorized to construe and interpret the standards and specifications prescribed as authorized in this article.
(b) Each of such officers is hereby authorized, with the concurrence of the other, to grant a waiver of a particular standard or specification upon proper application therefor, when in their joint opinion, following the specification or standard would be unreasonably costly and impractical, or that an alternative facility is already reasonably available.
(Acts 1965, No. 224, p. 315, §1; Acts 1975, No. 1210, p. 2524, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 1 - Accessibility Generally. › Section 21-4-6 - Review of Architectural Plans and Specifications; Reviewing Authorities Authorized to Adopt Additional Rules and Regulations.

Section 21-4-6
Review of architectural plans and specifications; reviewing authorities authorized to adopt additional rules and regulations.
(a) The responsibility for reviewing architectural plans and specifications for buildings to which this article applies shall be as follows:
(1) Where state school funds are utilized, the State Board of Education and the Division of Construction Management of the Department of Finance.
(2) Where other state funds are utilized, the Division of Construction Management of the Department of Finance.
(3) Where funds of counties, municipalities or other political subdivisions are utilized, the governing bodies thereof and the Division of Construction Management of the Department of Finance.
(b) Each such reviewing authority is hereby authorized to adopt and enforce rules and regulations prescribing additional standards based on standards prescribed by the American National Standards Institute for making buildings and facilities accessible to and functional for the physically handicapped.
(Acts 1965, No. 224, p. 315, §10; Acts 1975, No. 1210, p. 2524, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 1 - Accessibility Generally. › Section 21-4-7 - Enforcement of Article; Authority of Fire Marshal to Inspect Buildings; Orders to Conform With Standards and Specifications.

Section 21-4-7
Enforcement of article; authority of Fire Marshal to inspect buildings; orders to conform with standards and specifications.
The State Fire Marshal is charged with the duty of enforcing standards and specifications prescribed as authorized in Section 21-4-3. For such purpose, he shall have the same power and authority to inspect buildings, facilities, and premises to which this article applies that he has relative to buildings which might constitute fire hazards. If he finds that any building to which this article applies does not comply with the applicable standards and specifications duly prescribed and published pursuant to Section 21-4-3, he shall immediately order the same to be conformed to such standards and specifications. Such order may be appealed and enforced in the same manner prescribed for appealing and enforcing the Fire Marshal's orders relative to the elimination of fire hazards.
(Acts 1965, No. 224, p. 315, §10; Acts 1975, No. 1210, p. 2524, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 2 - Accessibility of Registration and Polling Places. › Section 21-4-20 - Legislative Intent.

Section 21-4-20
Legislative intent.
It is the intention of the Legislature in enacting this article to promote the fundamental right to vote by requiring registration and polling places for state elections to be readily accessible to handicapped and elderly individuals.
(Acts 1985, No. 85-234, p. 133, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 2 - Accessibility of Registration and Polling Places. › Section 21-4-21 - Definitions.

Section 21-4-21
Definitions.
As used in this article, unless the context clearly indicates a different meaning, the following terms shall have meanings ascribed to them as follows:
(1) ELDERLY INDIVIDUAL. An individual 65 years of age or older;
(2) ELECTION FOR STATE OFFICE. A general, special primary, or runoff election for an executive, legislative, or judicial state office that is contested on a statewide basis;
(3) HANDICAPPED INDIVIDUAL. An individual qualified to vote, who, by reason of illness, injury, age, congenital malfunction, or other permanent or temporary incapacity or disability, is unable without accessible facilities or registration and voting aids to have access to registration and voting equal to that available to persons who are not so affected;
(4) STATE. State of Alabama;
(5) VOTING PRECINCT. The area inhabited by all individuals assigned to one polling place for a state election.
(Acts 1985, No. 85-234, p. 133, §2.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 2 - Accessibility of Registration and Polling Places. › Section 21-4-22 - Promulgation of Guidelines.

Section 21-4-22
Promulgation of guidelines.
(a) The Attorney General of this state, in consultation with the United States Secretary of Health and Human Services, and in accordance with Section 553 of Title 5, United States Code, shall promulgate, within six months of April 8, 1985, guidelines to assure that registration and polling place facilities used for state elections are readily accessible to and usable by handicapped and elderly individuals. Such guidelines at a minimum shall require:
(1) That all polling places shall be located
a. In any building or other facility which is or can be made accessible, by temporary ramp or otherwise, to individuals in wheelchairs on election days for all hours during which said polling places are used for the purpose of a state election; and
b. On the ground level of the building or other facility or at a location within such building or facility as is accessible by elevator; and
(2) That all places of registration shall be located
a. In any building or other facility which is or can be made accessible by temporary ramp or otherwise to individuals in wheelchairs for all hours during which said places of registration are used for the purpose of a state election; and
b. On the ground level of the building or other facility or at a location within such building or facility as is accessible by elevator.
(b) The requirements of subsection (a) of this section shall not apply to registration places located in private residences or to temporary places of registration designated or used by deputy or assistant registrars on a one-time or occasional basis; provided, however, that comparable registration procedures and/or registration places which comply with the guidelines are available to handicapped and elderly individuals.
(c) No provision of this article shall be deemed to constitute legal justification for decreasing, or failing to increase, the number of places provided for voter registration or the number of polling places.
(Acts 1985, No. 85-234, p. 133, §3.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 2 - Accessibility of Registration and Polling Places. › Section 21-4-23 - Registration and Voting Aids.

Section 21-4-23
Registration and voting aids.
(a) The appropriate election officials in the several counties of this state shall make available registration and voting aids for handicapped and elderly individuals in state elections. These aids shall include, but are not limited to:
(1) Instructions, printed in large type, conspicuously displayed at each voter registration site and polling place, sufficient to provide hearing impaired and seriously visually impaired individuals with adequate information as to how and where they may register and vote.
(2) Paper ballots, available at each polling place, for the use of voters who would otherwise be prevented from voting because of their inability to operate a voting machine.
(3) Absentee ballots, available to any handicapped or elderly individual who, because of handicap or age, is unable to go to the polling facility in a state election. The deadlines for requesting and submitting an absentee ballot under this subsection shall not be earlier than the latest deadlines prescribed by law for other persons voting by absentee ballot.
(4) The opportunity for any handicapped or elderly individual who, because of handicap or age, requires assistance in casting a vote, to select a person of his or her choice to accompany such individual into the polling place to assist in the casting of the vote.
(b) The appropriate election officials of each county shall issue public notice in each voting precinct of the requirement for and the availability of these registration and voting aids, which notice shall be notification for all handicapped and elderly individuals. This notice shall be issued as early as practicable, but in any case not later than 60 days before any state election or the registration deadline for such election.
(Acts 1985, No. 85-234, p. 133, §4.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 4 - Accessibility to and Use of Public Buildings and Facilities by Physically Handicapped Persons. › Article 2 - Accessibility of Registration and Polling Places. › Section 21-4-24 - Actions for Injunctive Relief to Enforce Article.

Section 21-4-24
Actions for injunctive relief to enforce article.
(a) Whenever the Attorney General of this state has reason to believe that
(1) A registration or polling place does not comply with the standards prescribed under subsection (a) of Section 21-4-23; or
(2) A county has failed to provide registration and voting aids as required by Section 21-4-23, the Attorney General may institute, in the name of the state, an action in the Circuit Court of Montgomery County against the county, for injunctive relief, as may be necessary to implement this article.
(b) Whenever an individual has reason to believe that
(1) A registration or polling place does not comply with the standards prescribed under subsection (a) of Section 21-4-23; or
(2) A county has failed to provide registration and voting aids as required by Section 21-4-23, and that individual is personally aggrieved or is acting on behalf of an individual personally aggrieved by failure of the county to comply with this article, that individual may institute an action in the local circuit court against the county, for injunctive relief, as may be necessary to implement this article.
(Acts 1985, No. 85-234, p. 133, §5.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-1 - Created; Duties Generally; Promulgation of Rules and Regulations.

Section 21-5-1
Created; duties generally; promulgation of rules and regulations.
There is hereby created the Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped, by which name this chapter shall be known, for the purpose of carrying on a continuing program to promote the employment of the physically, mentally, emotionally, and otherwise handicapped citizens of Alabama. Such committee shall work in close cooperation with both state and federal agencies having responsibility for the rehabilitation and employment of the handicapped and shall be charged with the duty of creating state-wide interest in and more effectively carrying out the purpose of such agencies. Such committee shall be authorized to make necessary rules and regulations, not inconsistent with this chapter, for promoting its purposes.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-2 - Designation of "Employ the Handicapped Week"; Promotion of Ceremonies.

Section 21-5-2
Designation of "Employ the Handicapped Week"; promotion of ceremonies.
The Governor shall designate the first full week in October of each year as "Employ the Handicapped Week." The committee shall promote and encourage the holding of appropriate ceremonies throughout the state during said week, the purpose of which ceremonies shall be to enlist public support for and interest in the employment of the handicapped.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §2.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-3 - Committee to Be Nonpartisan and Nonprofit.

Section 21-5-3
Committee to be nonpartisan and nonprofit.
The Governor's committee shall be nonpartisan, nonprofit, and shall not engage in the dissemination of partisan principles.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §3.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-4 - Composition; Appointment and Compensation of Members.

Section 21-5-4
Composition; appointment and compensation of members.
There shall be no limit as to the number of members on the Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped, all of whom shall be appointed by the Governor and shall serve at his pleasure. The committee shall be composed of state leaders of industry, business, agriculture, labor, veterans, women, religious, educational, civic, fraternal, welfare, scientific and medical, and other professions, groups, or individuals who shall be appointed by the Governor. Such members shall not receive compensation or expenses for services rendered.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §4.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-5 - Chairman; Secretary-Treasurer; Executive Committee; Meetings.

Section 21-5-5
Chairman; secretary-treasurer; executive committee; meetings.
The chairman of the committee shall be appointed by the Governor and shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The committee shall elect from its membership a secretary-treasurer and certain of its members to serve as an executive committee. Subject to the rules and regulations adopted by the full committee, the administrative powers and duties of the committee shall be vested in the executive committee. The full committee shall meet annually, but at the request of the chairman or executive committee special meetings may be called.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §5.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-6 - Advisory Council.

Section 21-5-6
Advisory council.
The Governor shall request heads of state agencies and invite heads of federal agencies having direct interest in a program for the handicapped to serve as members of an advisory council to the committee. The advisory council shall annually elect a chairman who shall serve as the vice-chairman of the Governor's committee.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §6.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-7 - Employment of Handicapped Liaison Group.

Section 21-5-7
Employment of handicapped liaison group.
An employment of the handicapped liaison group shall be established to consist of the chairman of the Governor's Committee, the chairman of the advisory council, and the executive secretary in order to maintain coordination of the program under the provisions of this chapter.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §7.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-8 - Executive Secretary and Other Personnel; Payment of Salaries and Expenses.

Section 21-5-8
Executive secretary and other personnel; payment of salaries and expenses.
An executive secretary, and such other personnel as recommended by the executive committee shall be appointed by the State Superintendent of Education in the same manner as other state employees, subject to the provisions of the State Merit System. The salaries of the executive secretary and office personnel, the cost of materials, supplies, travel, awards, citations, and other expenses as may be deemed necessary for the purpose of promoting a program for the rehabilitation and employment of the handicapped in this state shall be paid from the funds provided for in Section 21-5-9, and funds appropriated by the Legislature and such federal money as may accrue through matching funds.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §8.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-9 - Trust Fund.

Section 21-5-9
Trust fund.
The committee is authorized to establish a trust fund and to accept gifts, contributions, donations, or bequests, but not excluding any other source of revenue, for the purpose of promoting the rehabilitation and employment of the handicapped citizens of this state. Such moneys shall be deposited in the trust fund and administered and disbursed in the same manner and under the same conditions as other moneys which may be appropriated for this purpose. Any balance of these moneys shall not lapse at any time, but shall be continuously available for expenditures consistent with the purpose of this chapter.
(Acts 1965, No. 226, p. 323, §9.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 5 - Governor's Committee on Employment of the Handicapped. › Section 21-5-10 - Annual Report and Evaluation.

Section 21-5-10
Annual report and evaluation.
The committee shall make a formal evaluation and shall make an annual report to the Governor and the Legislature, including therein suggestions and recommendations for protecting and improving the state's effectiveness in employing or helping to employ handicapped individuals. The annual report and evaluation shall be submitted to the Governor and the Legislature at least 30 days prior to the convening of the Regular Session for the year. The report shall include statistics on:
(1) Total number of handicapped individuals in Alabama;
(2) Number seeking employment;
(3) Number receiving employment through efforts of the Governor's committee;
(4) A listing of accomplishments resulting from actions taken by the committee; and
(5) Any other supportive data that can be used to measure the effectiveness of the actions of the committee.
(Acts 1980, No. 80-147, p. 217.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 6 - Rehabilitation Program for the Homebound. › Section 21-6-1 - Authorized; Contracts With State Agencies and Private Organizations.

Section 21-6-1
Authorized; contracts with state agencies and private organizations.
The Children's Rehabilitation Services of the Department of Rehabilitation Services is authorized to establish a rehabilitation program for the homebound to provide medical and attendant care and adjustment aids to those handicapped persons who meet certain requirements stated in this chapter. The Children's Rehabilitation Services shall be responsible for the administration of the program, but may contract with other state agencies or private organizations in connection with the program.
(Acts 1975, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 109, p. 336, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 6 - Rehabilitation Program for the Homebound. › Section 21-6-2 - Services Available to Eligible Persons.

Section 21-6-2
Services available to eligible persons.
Services that may be provided eligible persons, if not available from other sources, include:
(1) Medical care;
(2) Adjustment training;
(3) Attendant care;
(4) Prosthetic appliances;
(5) Home health care by health care teams;
(6) Home modification; provided, that no more than $1,000.00 shall be expended on any one home in any one year;
(7) Transportation; and
(8) Medical supplies.
(Acts 1975, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 109, p. 336, §2.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 6 - Rehabilitation Program for the Homebound. › Section 21-6-3 - Eligibility Requirements.

Section 21-6-3
Eligibility requirements.
Services available under this chapter may be provided to any person who:
(1) Has made application therefor to the director of the Children's Rehabilitation Service in the manner prescribed by him;
(2) Has a severe disability that causes the person to be homebound, such disability to be certified by an appropriate medical specialist;
(3) Has not sufficient income or resources, including family income or resources, insurance, workman's compensation, etc., to meet the cost of home care services applied for, such insufficiency to be determined by a rehabilitation and Children's Rehabilitation Service staff member;
(4) Is under the care of a family member who is a potential wage earner and will be relieved to engage in employment outside the home, such circumstances to be certified by a vocational rehabilitation counselor, and such counselor will be responsible for helping place such family member in employment; and
(5) Is a resident of this state.
(Acts 1975, 3rd Ex. Sess. No. 109, p. 336, §3.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 6 - Rehabilitation Program for the Homebound. › Section 21-6-4 - Attendant Care.

Section 21-6-4
Attendant care.
Attendant care may be provided when (1) the requirements of Section 21-6-3 are met and (2) an attendant trained by competent medical and vocational rehabilitation personnel is available to provide the care needed by the homebound person. Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prohibit a member of the handicapped person's family from serving as an attendant under this chapter.
(Acts 1975, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 109, p. 336, §4.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 6 - Rehabilitation Program for the Homebound. › Section 21-6-5 - Regional Rehabilitation Committees.

Section 21-6-5
Regional rehabilitation committees.
The Director of the Children’s Rehabilitation Service of the Department of Rehabilitation Services shall establish as many regional rehabilitation committees as he deems necessary. Each such committee shall be made up of (1) a medical specialist, (2) a vocational rehabilitation counselor, (3) a registered nurse, (4) a physical therapist, and (5) a social worker. Each committee member shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Director of the Children’s Rehabilitation Service. Such committees shall be responsible for the final determination of the eligibility of each applicant for services provided under this chapter and the type and extent of services needed by such applicant.
(Acts 1975, 3rd Ex. Sess., No. 109, p. 336, §5.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-2 - Right to Full Use of Streets, Sidewalks, Public Buildings, Public Facilities, Etc.

Section 21-7-2
Right to full use of streets, sidewalks, public buildings, public facilities, etc.
An individual with a disability has the same right as an individual who is not disabled to the full and free use of the streets, highways, sidewalks, walkways, public buildings, public facilities, and other public places.
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §2; Act 2019-478, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-3 - Right to Full Use of Streets, Sidewalks, Public Buildings, Public Facilities, Etc.

Section 21-7-3
Right to full use of streets, sidewalks, public buildings, public facilities, etc.
(a) An individual with a disability is entitled to full and equal accommodations, advantages, facilities, and privileges in every public accommodation.
(b) A public accommodation shall modify its policies, practices, and procedures to permit the use of a service animal by an individual with a disability.
(c) This chapter does not require a person, firm, business, or corporation, or an agent thereof, to modify or provide a vehicle, premises, facility, or service to a higher degree of accommodation than is required for an individual who is not disabled.
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §2; Act 2019-478, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-5 - Notice Regarding Use of Service Animal.

Section 21-7-5
Notice regarding use of service animal.
A conspicuous sign may be posted in a location accessible to public view in a place of public accommodation that contains the following, or substantially similar, language:
"NOTICE: Service animals welcome. It is illegal for a person to misrepresent an animal in that person's possession as a service animal."
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §4; Act 2019-478, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-6 - Duty of Drivers to Pedestrians Carrying Cane or Accompanied by Service Animal.

Section 21-7-6
Duty of drivers to pedestrians carrying cane or accompanied by service animal.
(a) The driver of a vehicle approaching a totally or partially blind pedestrian who is carrying a cane predominantly white or metallic in color, with or without a red tip, or using a service animal, or an individual employed by an accredited school for training a service animal who provides notice through a sign or other method that he or she is training an animal as a service animal shall take all necessary precautions prescribed by law to avoid injury to the blind pedestrian or the trainer.
(b)(1) A service animal in training that is a dog shall wear a harness, collar, leash, cape, or backpack that identifies in writing that the dog is a service animal in training.
(2) Other service animals in training shall be identifiable by written identification as a service animal in training.
(3) The written identification for a service animal in training shall be visible and legible from a distance of at least 20 feet.
(c) Any driver who fails to take all necessary precautions shall be liable in damages for any injury caused to the pedestrian or the trainer.
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §3; Act 99-698, 2nd Sp. Sess., p. 298, §1; Act 2019-478, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-7 - Rights of Blind Persons Not Using Cane or Service Animal.

Section 21-7-7
Rights of blind persons not using cane or service animal.
A totally or partially blind pedestrian not carrying a cane as described in Section 21-7-6 or any totally or partially blind individual not using a service animal in a public accommodation shall have all of the rights and privileges conferred by law upon other individuals, and the failure of a totally or partially blind pedestrian to carry a cane or of a totally or partially blind individual to use a service animal in a public accommodation may not be held to constitute nor be evidence of contributory negligence.
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §3; Act 2019-478, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-8 - Employment by State, Political Subdivisions of State, Public Schools, Etc.

Section 21-7-8
Employment by state, political subdivisions of state, public schools, etc.
It is the policy of this state that an individual with a disability shall be employed in the state service, the service of the political subdivisions of the state, in the public schools, and in all other employment supported in whole or in part by public funds on the same terms and conditions as an individual who is not disabled, and an employer may not refuse employment to an individual with a disability on the basis of his or her disability alone, unless it is shown that the particular disability prevents the satisfactory performance of the work involved.
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §6; Act 2019-478, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-9 - Right to Housing Accommodations.

Section 21-7-9
Right to housing accommodations.
(a) An individual with a disability shall be entitled to full and equal access, as are other members of the general public, to any housing accommodation offered for rent, lease, or compensation in this state, subject to the conditions and limitations established by law and applicable alike to all individuals.
(b) Nothing in this section shall require any person renting, leasing, or providing for compensation real property to modify his or her property in any way or provide a higher degree of care for an individual with a disability than for an individual who is not disabled.
(c)(1) An individual with a disability who has a service animal or who obtains a service animal shall be entitled to full and equal access to any housing accommodation as provided for in this section.
(2) An individual with a disability may not be required by the housing accommodation to pay extra compensation for a service animal, but shall be liable for any damage done to the premises or to another person on the premises by the service animal.
(3) A housing accommodation may request proof of compliance with vaccination requirements for a service animal.
(d) This chapter does not limit the rights or remedies of a housing accommodation or an individual with a disability that are granted by state or federal law with regard to other assistance animals.
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §7; Act 2019-478, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 7 - Rights of Blind and Otherwise Physically Disabled Persons. › Section 21-7-10 - Annual Proclamation of White Cane Safety Day.

Section 21-7-10
Annual proclamation of White Cane Safety Day.
Each year, the Governor shall take suitable public notice of October 15 as White Cane Safety Day. He shall issue a proclamation in which:
(1) He comments upon the significance of the white cane;
(2) He calls upon the citizens of the state to observe the provisions of the White Cane Law and to take precautions necessary to the safety of the disabled;
(3) He reminds the citizens of the state of the policies with respect to the disabled herein declared and urges the citizens to cooperate in giving effect to them; and
(4) He emphasizes the need of the citizens to be aware of the presence of disabled persons in the community and to keep safe and functional for the disabled the streets, highways, sidewalks, walkways, public buildings, public facilities, other public places, places of public accommodation, amusement and resort, and other places to which the public is invited, and to offer assistance to disabled persons upon appropriate occasions.
(Acts 1975, No. 869, p. 1711, §5.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 8 - Hemophilia Treatment. › Section 21-8-1 - Definitions.

Section 21-8-1
Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them by this section:
(1) COMMITTEE. The Hemophilia Advisory Committee established by this chapter.
(2) HEMOPHILIA. A bleeding disorder resulting from a genetically determined deficiency factor in the blood, or hereditarily resulting in an abnormal or deficient plasma procoagulant.
(Acts 1975, No. 1181, p. 2312, §2.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 8 - Hemophilia Treatment. › Section 21-8-2 - Legislative Intent.

Section 21-8-2
Legislative intent.
In order to foster the health, welfare, and safety of the people of this state and to facilitate the research and treatment of hemophilia and related diseases, it is hereby declared to be the policy of this state to achieve the maximum practical degree of care and treatment for persons suffering from hemophilia and other related diseases.
(Acts 1975, No. 1181, p. 2312, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 8 - Hemophilia Treatment. › Section 21-8-3 - Treatment Program Established.

Section 21-8-3
Treatment program established.
There is hereby established the Hemophilia Treatment Program in Alabama, to be administered by the Children's Rehabilitation Service of the Department of Rehabilitation Services. Such treatment program shall use the existing facilities and staff of the Children's Rehabilitation Service, as required, for the care and treatment of persons suffering from hemophilia. The Hemophilia Treatment Program shall assist those persons who require continuing treatment with blood, blood derivatives, or a manufactured pharmaceutical product to avoid crippling, hospitalization, or other effects associated with hemophilia, but who are unable to pay for the entire cost of such services on a continuing basis, despite the existence of various types of hospital and medical insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, other government assistance programs, and private charitable assistance.
(Acts 1975, No. 1181, p. 2312, §3.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 8 - Hemophilia Treatment. › Section 21-8-4 - Hemophilia Advisory Committee.

Section 21-8-4
Hemophilia Advisory Committee.
The Director of the Children's Rehabilitation Service shall appoint a committee to consult with the Children's Rehabilitation Service in the administration of the program established by this chapter. The committee shall be composed of not more than 12 members representing hospitals, voluntary agencies interested in hemophilia, medical specialists in hemophilia patient care, representatives of adult hemophiliacs and parents of hemophiliacs, and the general public; but no group shall have more than four members on the committee. Each member of the committee shall hold office for a term of four years or until his successor is appointed and qualified; except, that of those members initially appointed, two shall be appointed for one-year terms, three shall be appointed for two-year terms, three shall be appointed for three-year terms, and three shall be appointed for four-year terms. Any vacancy occurring on the committee shall be filled by appointment by the division director for the unexpired term. The committee shall meet at least annually, and at such other times as the chairman or a majority of members deem necessary. Members of the committee shall receive no compensation, but shall be reimbursed, upon proper documentation, for their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.
(Acts 1975, No. 1181, p. 2312, §3.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 8 - Hemophilia Treatment. › Section 21-8-5 - Duties of Children's Rehabilitation Service.

Section 21-8-5
Duties of Children's Rehabilitation Service.
It is the duty of the Children's Rehabilitation Service, with the advice of the committee, to:
(1) Develop standards for determining eligibility for care and treatment under this chapter.
(2) Assist in the development and expansion of programs for the care and treatment of persons suffering from hemophilia and related diseases, including home care and medical and dental procedures designed to provide maximum control over bleeding.
(3) Extend financial assistance to persons suffering from hemophilia for the purpose of obtaining blood, blood derivatives and concentrates, and other efficacious agents for use in hospital, medical and dental facilities, and in the home.
(4) Institute and carry on community educational programs for the detection of hemophilia and for the counseling of individuals and families.
(5) Conduct educational programs for physicians, dentists, hospitals, regional health departments, and the public concerning the methods of care and treatment for persons suffering from hemophilia.
(Acts 1975, No. 1181, p. 2312, §4.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-1 - Declaration of Policy.

Section 21-9-1
Declaration of policy.
It is the policy of this state to provide rehabilitation services, to the extent needed and feasible within resources available, to eligible children and adults with disabilities throughout the state, so that they may engage in meaningful educational and employment opportunities and live independently to the extent of their capabilities, thereby increasing their social and economic well-being and that of their families, and the productive capacity of this state and nation, also thereby reducing the burden of dependency on families and taxpayers.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §1.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-2 - Definitions.

Section 21-9-2
Definitions.
For the purposes of this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the respective meanings ascribed to them by this section:
(1) BOARD. The Board of Rehabilitation Services.
(2) COMMISSIONER. The Commissioner of the Department of Rehabilitation Services, who shall administer the department.
(3) COMPONENT PROGRAMS. The following programs administered by the department:
a. Children's Rehabilitation Service. A service program that provides educational, medical, and habilitative services including recreational and physical fitness services for children with special health care needs, including coordination and support for their families through statewide community-based programs.
b. Early Intervention Program. A program that provides early intervention services for children, up to the age of three years, who are born with disabling conditions or who are at risk for developmental delay.
c. Adult Vocational Rehabilitation Service. A service program that provides training and employment-related services for persons who have disabilities that present a substantial barrier to employment and who, as a result of services, have a reasonable expectation of becoming employed. This program also offers special services for the sensory impaired, providing employment opportunities for those who have hearing or visual impairments, or both.
d. Business Enterprise Program. A specialized program that provides food service vending employment opportunities for legally blind individuals.
e. Client Assistance Program. A consumer and client advocacy service program designed to provide information and resolve problems or questions related to the provision of rehabilitation services.
f. Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. A program that is funded and administered by the Department of Rehabilitation Services to increase awareness, provide information, and reduce barriers to employment for people with disabilities.
g. Homebound Service. A service program that provides nursing, counseling, and attendant care services for persons with severe disabilities to enable them to achieve maximum independence in their home environment.
(4) DEPARTMENT. The Department of Rehabilitation Services, a state department of government directly responsible to the Board of Rehabilitation Services for the direction and supervision of rehabilitation services.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §2.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-3 - Transfer of Powers, Funds, Personnel.

Section 21-9-3
Transfer of powers, funds, personnel.
(a) All powers, duties, and functions of, and all related records, property, equipment of, and all contractual rights, obligations of, and unexpended balances of appropriations and other funds or allocations of the Division of Rehabilitation Services and the division's component programs of the State Board of Education and the State Department of Education shall be transferred to the Board of Rehabilitation Services and the Department of Rehabilitation Services on or before January 1, 1995.
(b) All funds appropriated to the State Department of Education for fiscal year ending September 30, 1995, for the Division of Rehabilitation Services and the division's component programs, shall be transferred to the Department of Rehabilitation Services for its use during that fiscal year under the same terms and conditions as specified for those funds in any appropriation bill, or as otherwise specified by law.
(c) All personnel positions of the Division of Rehabilitation Services and the division's component programs and personnel in the Division of Computer Services and the Division of Administrative and Financial Services Accounting Section whose responsibilities and assignments are in full-time support of the Division of Rehabilitation Services, shall be transferred to the Department of Rehabilitation Services on January 1, 1995, at a level commensurate with the level of each respective position on December 31, 1994.
(d) The State Board of Education and the State Department of Education shall assist the Board of Rehabilitation Services and the Department of Rehabilitation Services with the highest degree of cooperation to carry out the intent and purpose of this chapter and to achieve an orderly transition.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §3.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-4 - Creation, Membership.

Section 21-9-4
Creation, membership.
There is created the Board of Rehabilitation Services consisting of seven members, one from each United States Congressional District, appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate as follows:
(1) Three members shall be individuals with a disability, selected from consumer disability organizations.
(2) One member shall be a parent of a child with a disability.
(3) Three members shall be selected from organizations of business and industry within the state.
The appointed members shall reflect the diversity of the population of the State of Alabama.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §4.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-5 - Terms of Office.

Section 21-9-5
Terms of office.
Of the members first appointed to the Board of Rehabilitation Services: one shall be appointed for a term of seven years; one for a term of six years; one for a term of five years; one for a term of four years; one for a term of three years; one for a term of two years; and one for a term of one year. Thereafter, terms of office shall be seven years, commencing on the first day of October and ending on the thirtieth day of September. No member shall serve more than two full seven-year terms of office. Any member appointed to fill a vacancy shall hold office for the remainder of the unexpired term. A member shall serve until his or her successor takes office or 60 days after the expiration of the term of office, whichever occurs first. No member shall be an employee or elected official of the State of Alabama or a political subdivision thereof.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §5.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-6 - Oath, Bond.

Section 21-9-6
Oath, bond.
Before entering upon the duties of office, each member of the board shall take and subscribe to an oath to uphold the Constitution and laws of the United States and this state and to perform the duties of office honestly, faithfully, and impartially. Each member shall give a bond of five thousand dollars ($5,000), with a sufficient surety approved by the State Treasurer. After approval, the bond shall be filed with the Secretary of State. If the bond is executed by a surety company, the premiums shall be paid from funds appropriated and available to the department.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §6.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-7 - Reimbursement of Expenses.

Section 21-9-7
Reimbursement of expenses.
Each member of the board shall receive travel and per diem compensation for expenses incurred in the conduct of official duties while attending meetings and transacting the business of the board, in accordance with applicable state travel and per diem paid to state employees. The compensation of members shall be paid from funds available to the department in the same manner as other expenses are paid.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §7.)
2023 Code of Alabama › Title 21 - Handicapped Persons. › Chapter 9 - Board of Rehabilitation Services and Department of Rehabilitation Services. › Section 21-9-8 - Chair.

Section 21-9-8
Chair.
The board shall elect a chair from its membership at the first meeting of initial board members on January 15, 1995, and every two years thereafter. A majority of the membership of the board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business. The board shall meet at least quarterly and, at the call of the chair or any four members, shall hold other special meetings. All meetings shall be called by the chair, except the first meeting of initial board members, which shall be called by the Governor.
(Acts 1994, 1st Ex. Sess., No. 94-824, p. 147, §8.)