UPDATE: Accessible parking spot compliance for CUs in Texas

As we mentioned in an earlier article, House Bill 3163 by Rep. Drew Springer passed in the 2019 Texas legislative session. This bill relates to places of public accommodation and the parking spaces they provide for persons with disabilities.

We have received many questions on this bill and, unfortunately, the status as of now is that a lot still needs to be ironed out by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Although the effective date of the bill is Sept. 1, 2019, credit unions can hold off on complying until we receive rules and guidance from TDLR.

In response to her inquiry, Cornerstone Regulatory Compliance Counsel Suzanne Yashewski was told this week that TDLR will be formulating a strategy to implement HB 3163. A response based on language provided by the program manager for the Architectural Barriers Program follows:

There are a lot of moving parts when it comes to enacting new legislation. Updating the Texas Accessibility Standards is definitely on the list of things to do. Right now, we are in the preliminary stages of moving forward with this. As soon as bill implementation teams are established, we will know more about how this will be enforced. As of now, timelines have not been established so we (Architectural Barrier staff) are in a holding pattern. When things start moving, we will keep everyone informed.

TDLR staff stated that they too have many unanswered questions on the bill, and they will share information on implementation as soon as possible. Cornerstone will keep you updated as soon as we hear any developments.

As a recap, the bill requires that if an accessible parking space is paved, the international symbol of access must be painted on the parking space, and the words “no parking” must be painted on any access aisle adjacent to the parking space. Additionally, the required sign identifying the space must include a statement regarding the potential consequences of illegally parking a vehicle in the space, including the towing of the vehicle or assessment of a fine or other penalty. 

Yashewski says that some of the unanswered questions she has include:

1. Will credit unions be required to repaint all existing ADA spots, or does the requirement apply only to new spaces and/or newly paved areas?
2. Will TDLR provide model language for signage? And
3. When will these required changes be enforced (actual compliance date)?

Questions? Contact Suzanne Yashewski, regulatory compliance counsel, Cornerstone Credit Union League at syashewski@cornerstoneleague.coop.