Reasonable Accommodations for Individuals with Disabilities - Notice and FAQs
Notice
The Office of the Governor (OOG) is committed to providing individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from the OOG’s programs, activities, and services.
Individuals may request reasonable accommodations from the OOG that they believe will enable them to have such equal opportunity to participate in our programs, activities, and services.
To request reasonable accommodations, email the OOG’s Reasonable Accommodation Program Manager or call 512-463-2295.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a reasonable accommodation in the OOG’s program?
A reasonable accommodation is a change or modification to afford a qualified individual with a disability full enjoyment of the OOG’s programs, activities, and services, unless modifications of policies, practices, and procedures would fundamentally alter the nature of the program, service or activity, or result in undue financial and administrative burdens to the OOG.
2. How do I request a reasonable accommodation?
If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact the OOG’s Reasonable Accommodation Program Manager via email at reasonable.accommodation@gov.texas.gov; or telephone at: 512-463-2295.
3. Does my request for a reasonable accommodation need to be in writing?
No, you do not need to request in writing. However, making a written request can be helpful documentation for ensuring that the OOG is aware of the specific accommodation you require. In addition, you do not need to use the specific words “reasonable accommodations” when making your request.
4. When should I request a reasonable accommodation?
You may request a reasonable accommodation from the OOG at any time. However, making the request in advance of a meeting, conference call, or visit will help ensure that the OOG is able to fulfill the request for an accommodation. For certain requests, such as for sign language interpretation, the OOG prefers at least two (2) weeks’ advance notice.
5. May someone request a reasonable accommodation on my behalf?
Yes, anyone can request a reasonable accommodation on behalf of an individual with a disability who seeks to interact with the OOG’s staff or participate in its programs, activities, or services.
6. What will the OOG do upon receiving my request for a reasonable accommodation?
The OOG will contact you to obtain more information about your request and to better understand your needs. In addition, the OOG may seek additional information to determine:
- Whether the requested accommodation will be effective in allowing you to participate in the program, activity, or service in which you are seeking participation;
- Whether the requested accommodation is reasonable, or an equally effective alternative to the requested accommodation is available; and
- Whether providing you with the requested accommodation would fundamentally alter the nature of the OOG’s program, activity, or service, or impose undue financial or administrative burdens on the OOG.
In addition, in some cases, the OOG may consult with you to determine whether your requested accommodation or an alternative accommodation can be made.
If the OOG determines that your requested accommodation would fundamentally alter the nature of the program, activity, or service, or impose an undue financial or administrative burden, the OOG may deny your request. However, in the event that this occurs, the OOG will work with you to identify an alternative accommodation that allows you to effectively participate in the OOG’s program, activity, or service.
7. May the OOG charge you the cost of providing the reasonable accommodation?
No, you are not responsible for the cost of an auxiliary aid or service the OOG provides to you.
8. What are some examples of reasonable accommodations?
There are many types of reasonable accommodations. Some examples of how the OOG may provide a reasonable accommodation include:
- Arranging for qualified sign language interpreters
- Providing on-site captioning
- Producing alternate formats of print materials in braille, large print, or in an electronic format
- Providing remote conference captioning services
- Furnishing a temporary ramp to access the dais or other areas with one or more stairs to ensure accessibility for individuals who have physical disabilities and may be using a wheelchair or walker