U.S. Access Board Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Rule for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations

On September 3, the U.S. Access Board published a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend the accessibility guidelines for buildings and facilities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (ABA) to specifically address the accessibility of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. This proposed rule provides specifications for the accessibility of EV charging stations, to include the EV charger (including physical and communication access), EV charging space, access aisles, and accessible routes. The public can review the docket and read background documents or comments received on the docket webpage.

"The Access Board seeks the public's feedback and comments on our proposed rulemaking on EV charging stations. As technology advances, so must our accessibility standards to ensure that Americans with disabilities have equal access to advancements in technology, such as electric vehicles," remarked Executive Director Sachin Pavithran. "This is an opportunity for the public to engage with the Access Board's rulemaking, and we look forward to reviewing your public comments as we move our rulemaking efforts forward."

Public comments for the NPRM are due by November 4, 2024. Individuals may submit comments via any of the following methods:

• Federal Register: Select the "Submit a Formal Comment" link at the top of the notice and follow the instructions.
• Regulations.gov e-rulemaking portal: Select "Comment" link and follow the instructions.
• Email: [email protected]. Include docket number ATBCB-2024-0001 in the subject line of the message.
• Mail: Office of General Counsel, U.S. Access Board, 1331 F Street NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004-1111.

All submissions must include the docket number (ATBCB-2024-0001) for this regulatory action. All comments received will be posted without change to Regulations.gov, including any personal information provided.

Visit our EV Charging Stations webpage to learn more about the background of this proposed rule.

The Access Board provides free technical assistance on its accessibility guidelines and standards through its helpline at 1-202-272-0080, extension 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (ET) weekdays. For technical assistance specifically on the accessibility of EV Charging stations, please email [email protected].