Transportation Services for Persons with Disabilities

This bill aims to improve transportation services for the disadvantaged, including those with disabilities. The bill emphasizes fair access and strives to provide cost-effective transportation irrespective of the operating systems or profit status of providers. It mandates the following: performance audits of transportation contracts, creation of a complaints system, annual reporting on service quality, funding allocation methodologies, and ensuring drivers attend disability service training. A new section, 427.02, details obligations for transportation service providers: driver training to meet the standards set by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, secure interior camera systems in paratransit vehicles, offer internet and smartphone-based booking and tracking in accessible formats, conduct technology maintenance and upgrades, and provide both pre-booking and on-demand services.