In order to ensure the highest quality of our services, we use small files called cookies. When using our website, the cookie files are downloaded onto your device. You can change the settings of your browser at any time. In addition, your use of our website is tantamount to your consent to the processing of your personal data provided by electronic means.

Back

Another step towards accessibility. The government has adopted the bill submitted by the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy

30.10.2023

Thanks to this legislation, people with special needs will have easier access to facilities such as payment terminals and ATMs. These are just some of the benefits of the bill on accessibility of certain products and services. The regulation adapts Polish law to the requirements of an EU directive (the so-called European Accessibility Act or EAA).

Another step towards accessibility. The government has adopted the bill submitted by the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy

The aim of the legislation is to reduce social exclusion. The adopted provisions will ensure greater access to certain products and services for people with disabilities and functional limitations resulting from age, illness as well as temporary or situational impairment. The Polish act implementing the EAA regulations is part of the Accessibility Plus programme

– said Grzegorz Puda, Minister of Funds and Regional Policy.

The new solutions concern well-defined products and services, assessed as essential for people with disabilities and special needs to function freely and as independently as possible in society. These include computers, smartphones, e-books, in-store payment terminals, ATMs, self-service check-in facilities, retail banking services, e-commerce or digital information in passenger transport.

Ensuring that these products and services are accessible will not only mean that they can be used by everyone regardless of any fitness limitations, but also that they are convenient to use.

The new legislation is an opportunity for all. On the one hand, for people with special needs, to be able to use not only public places but also services of general interest independently. On the other hand, it is also an opportunity for business to market new, more innovative products

– the minister added.

The law also sets out the operation of a market surveillance system for operators’ compliance with accessibility obligations.

The EAA is the first regulation of its kind in EU law to comprehensively regulate accessibility issues. The creation of a single and modern set of rules on the accessibility of products and services will guarantee clarity of requirements for companies operating in the EU market and accessibility for consumers.

The bill will now go to the Parliament, where it will be considered by the Sejm and the Senate.

The provisions of the Act on the Accessibility of Certain Products and Services are due to take effect from June 2025.

{"register":{"columns":[]}}