Title
Resolution urging the State of Pennsylvania’s Department of Labor and Industry to adopt more progressive and inclusive accessibility standards through the Uniform Construction Code (UCC).
Body
Whereas, the construction or renovation standards for private or public structures utilized by the public are set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 with Amendments (ADA)
Whereas, the Department of Labor and Industry is the sole authority on UCC accessibility standards in the State of Pennsylvania; and
Whereas, The City of Pittsburgh has adopted the UCC Accessibility Standards; and
Whereas, current regulations allow for exceptions and variances in the accessibility standards only at the State level; and
Whereas, enforcement of ADA requirements is provided by the federal Department of Justice and non-compliance can create significant costs for builders and property owners; and
Whereas, residents of the City of Pittsburgh have expressed the need for more inclusive accessibility standards and regulations; and
Whereas, City Council wants to create policies and standards that eliminate the discrimination of persons with disabilities.
Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Pittsburgh as follows:
Section 1. Pittsburgh City Council urges the Department of Labor and Industry to consider and adopt more progressive and inclusive accessibility standards. Specifically, to adopt a standard that prioritizes the entrances of buildings as a mandatory renovation when the building is already undergoing other renovations.