January 28, 2026
Nate Crippes / Public Affairs Supervising Attorney
ncrippes@disabilitylawcenter.org
Andrew Riggle / Public Policy Advocate
ariggle@disabilitylawcenter.org
(801) 363-1347 / (800) 662-9080
disabilitylawcenter.org
Good afternoon, committee members. My name is Andrew Riggle. I’m the Disability Law Center’s public policy advocate. I also use a power wheelchair and have an accessible minivan. I know how hard it can be to find an accessible space already.
We appreciate Rep. Lee’s willingness to hear our concerns. However, it’s important we share them with you, too. A business can, and a few have, chose to designate “stork spots.” A woman can get a temporary placard now if a doctor says she has a condition related to pregnancy which qualifies as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Illinois has a similar law that allows a pregnant woman to get a temporary placard in the last trimester. The number of accessible spaces a business must have is set by a formula under the ADA. As such, a complaint against a law like this was filed in Florida late last year.
From the DLC’s perspective, this proposal is unnecessary. However, if the committee believes it addresses a critical issue, there are options that don’t further disadvantage Utahns with disabilities. Thank you for your time and considering our position.