UPDATE: DOJ Extends Deadline for Compliance with ADA Pool Lift Requirements
On March 15, 2012, the day the requirements were to go into effect, the Department of Justice approved a 60-day extension of the deadline for compliance with the pool lift requirements of the revised Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines.
As a result, existing pools in covered facilities do not have to comply with the requirements for accessible entry and exit until May 15, 2012. In addition, the DOJ is considering a six-month extension of the compliance requirements to allow the government to clarify misunderstandings regarding these new ADA obligations. Hotel operators should continue to work towards increasing the accessibility of existing pools and spas, however the adjustments may now be made at a more reasonable pace.
The remaining elements of the revised ADA are currently in effect. More about the impact of the revised ADA on hotels and recreational facilities can be found here.