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Stronger Air Travel Rights: New Accessibility Standards and Lawsuits for Disabled Passengers.

This Act significantly strengthens protections for passengers with disabilities in air travel by mandating stricter accessibility standards for aircraft and airports. Crucially, it grants citizens the right to sue airlines directly in federal court for discrimination or rights violations, allowing them to seek compensatory and punitive damages. Airlines must also prevent damage to mobility devices and ensure full digital accessibility.
Key points
Right to Sue Airlines: Passengers can now bring civil actions in court to seek damages (including punitive) for discrimination or rights violations, bypassing lengthy administrative processes.
Mandatory Accessibility Upgrades: Airlines must comply with new, strict standards within 7 years for aircraft (30+ seats), covering accessible lavatories, seating, and boarding/deplaning equipment.
Protection for Assistive Devices: Civil penalties are introduced for carriers responsible for the delay, loss, or significant damage to a passenger's wheelchair or scooter.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_545
Sponsor: Sen. Baldwin, Tammy [D-WI]
Process start date: 2023-02-28
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Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Air Carrier Access Amendments Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_545.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-02-28.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Right to Sue Airlines: Passengers can now bring civil actions in court to seek damages (including punitive) for discrimination or rights violations, bypassing lengthy administrative processes.
  • Mandatory Accessibility Upgrades: Airlines must comply with new, strict standards within 7 years for aircraft (30+ seats), covering accessible lavatories, seating, and boarding/deplaning equipment.
  • Protection for Assistive Devices: Civil penalties are introduced for carriers responsible for the delay, loss, or significant damage to a passenger's wheelchair or scooter.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Baldwin, Tammy [D-WI].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Transport Courts and Law