The Department of Energy has put out what is called a Direct Final Rule through the federal register. The rule will go into effect on July 15. However, we do have the opportunity to offer our thoughts and opinions. The process explains that if enough discourse is brought about the new rule, the agency will have to postpone the rule.
The rule will allow entities to make their own decisions when making their buildings 504 compliant. For instance, the rule states that entities should have more flexibility in choosing how to make their buildings accessible for people with disabilities. ACB stands firmly behind Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the provisions stated. We have written our own comments that we will submit through the federal register urging the department to hold fast the Section 504 regulations. We have attached that document here if anyone would like to use our draft to submit your own comments. The link to the direct final rule and the portal to submit comments can be found at the link below.
https://www.regulations.gov/document/DOE-HQ-2025-0015-0001
Please let our advocacy department know if they can answer any questions or assist in any way.
Posted on June 10th, 2025