Governmental Affairs
SDIA and its member hotels have an influence, and by continuing to join forces, we can further promote tourism and our industry as well. We work with all branches of State Government to help assure equitable treatment of our industry. We continually monitor State Rates to assure that the state employees and the industry are fairly treated. We have a strong grassroots effort to support our industry prior to and during the legislative session. We also have a full time lobbyist at the Capitol during the legislative session to promote favorable legislation as well as opposing legislation that is not favorable to the industry.
Learn more about becoming a member here. Find out more about all member hotels or contact us today to request additional information.
State lodging rates to increase on July 1, 2012
A process to increase the amount paid by the state for employee lodging concluded in late May with the legislative Rules Review committee unanimously approving an increase from $46.50 to $50 per night.
The current rate has been in place since July, 2007. SDIA had requested an increase in November, 2009 but it was denied by BOF. In the meantime, fewer rooms became available to state employees at the $46.50 rate. Members of BOF as well as the Rules Review committee expressed hope that this small increase would help get more rooms available.
ADA
Pool & spa entry: Department of Justice issues new guidance documents
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued two new guidance documents related to pool and spa entry requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The two documents, a Questions & Answers document and a Guidance Memo, are available online at:
http://www.ada.gov/qa_existingpools_titleIII.htm
http://www.ada.gov//pools_2010.htm
The DOJ announced in mid-May that it would extend the ADA compliance deadline for existing pools and spas to January 31, 2013.
The original compliance deadline was March 15 which was extended by 60 days at the request of the lodging industry and other business groups. Industry also requested DOJ to allow portable lifts as an acceptable means of providing pool and spa entry, the sharing of lifts between multiple pools at a facility, and a one-year compliance deadline.
In their current form, the new regulations require that pool lifts in existing pools/spas be "fixed" unless not "readily achievable," that lifts be next to the pool or spa at all times when facilities are open, and that lifts cannot be shared between two water bodies - even if they are in the same location.
Other areas affected by new ADA regulations:
Service Animals
http://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm
Ticket Sales
http://www.ada.gov/ticketing_2010.htm
For ADA Fact Sheet and other details, click here.
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