Air Carrier Access Amendments Act

The Air Carrier Access Amendments Act seeks to address persistent discrimination faced by air transportation passengers with disabilities, despite existing laws. Congress finds that individuals with disabilities continue to encounter significant barriers, including damaged assistive devices, inaccessible aircraft, and inadequate assistance, highlighting the need for stronger protections. The bill emphasizes that the current Air Carrier Access Act lacks a critical private right of action , which is essential for effective enforcement and ensuring individuals with disabilities have adequate remedies. To rectify these issues, the legislation amends title 49, United States Code, by establishing new enforcement mechanisms. It mandates civil penalties for specific violations, such as significant damage to wheelchairs, physical harm to passengers, or denial of boarding. Crucially, the bill creates a private right of action , allowing aggrieved passengers to file civil lawsuits against air carriers for discrimination within two years, without exhausting administrative remedies, and seek compensatory and punitive damages. Furthermore, it empowers the Attorney General to initiate civil actions on behalf of individuals, seeking various forms of relief, including damages and civil penalties.