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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2019 - 2020
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | December 9, 2019 12:35 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jared G. Solomon |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Gas Station Disability Access Sign Act |
| Many gas stations, while technically accessible under Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, are not practically useful for individuals with disabilities—even when they have fuel pumps that have been labeled as ADA compliant. The reality is for many individuals living with a disability, exiting the vehicle in a highly trafficked area to refuel, even with an ADA-compliant pump, is unsafe. And for individuals with limited dexterity and reach, refueling is impossible regardless of the pump in place. Refueling assistance will always be necessary for some. Nationwide, there are 15 million drivers with disabilities who are unable to easily access gas at 159,000 stations. That is why I am introducing legislation to address this in Pennsylvania. My bill will require all gas stations to provide clear disability signage at fueling positions with instructions on how to request assistance from an attendant, including a phone number. The bill further requires gas stations with ten or more fueling positions to make two of them accessible with a direct intercom system. The latter requirements will apply to all newly-constructed and renovated gas stations. Disabled Pennsylvanians deserve an efficient and dignified solution to the difficulties they sometimes face when refueling their cars. This legislation achieves this while also providing an opportunity for gas station owners to expand their businesses by being more accommodating to those with a disability and our senior community. Please consider sponsoring this important accessibility measure. |
Memo Updated: December 9, 2019 12:37 PM