Summary of HCONRES 45

Bill Information:
- Bill Number: HCONRES 45
- Title: Recognizing the need to improve physical access to many federally funded facilities for all people of the United States, particularly people with disabilities.
- Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.
- Introduced: July 23, 2025
- Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HCONRES 45 aims to address the ongoing barriers to access faced by people with disabilities in the United States. The resolution emphasizes the need for improved physical access to federally funded facilities and reaffirms the commitment of Congress to support existing laws that promote accessibility.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes the following key provisions:

1. Recognition of Barriers: Acknowledges that individuals with disabilities encounter daily challenges in accessing facilities and services.

2. Support for Existing Laws: Reaffirms support for:

   • Public Law 90–480 (Architectural Barriers Act of 1968), which mandates accessibility in federally funded buildings.
   • Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, which prohibits discrimination based on disability and requires accessible facilities.

3. Commitment to Universal Design: Pledges to adopt universal and inclusive design principles in all infrastructure projects and legislation, aiming to eliminate barriers that hinder equal access to federal services.

Affected Parties

The resolution primarily impacts:
- People with Disabilities: Individuals who face physical barriers in accessing federally funded facilities.
- Federal Agencies and Contractors: Entities responsible for the design and construction of public infrastructure, as they will be encouraged to comply with the principles of universal design.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

• July 23, 2025: The resolution was introduced in the House and referred to multiple committees, including:

  • Committee on Education and Workforce
  • Committee on the Judiciary
  • Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
  • Committee on Energy and Commerce
  • Committee on Oversight and Government Reform

• July 24, 2025: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management for further consideration.

Sponsors

The resolution is sponsored by:
- Primary Sponsor: Jahana Hayes
- Cosponsors: Eric Swalwell, Paul Tonko, Donald G. Davis, Brad Sherman, Dina Titus, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jill N. Tokuda, Debbie Dingell, Kevin Mullin, Janice D. Schakowsky, Dwight Evans, Steve Cohen, Rashida Tlaib, Darren Soto, Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Related Bills

• SCONRES 19: A companion resolution that addresses similar issues regarding accessibility for people with disabilities.

This summary provides an overview of HCONRES 45, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, affected parties, and legislative actions. The resolution represents a commitment by Congress to enhance accessibility and promote inclusive design in federally funded projects.