HARRISBURG – A bill updating accessibility standards in building codes has been signed into law by the governor. Accessibility provisions, such as requirements for ramps, elevators, door widths, and restroom accommodations, are updated every three years by the International Code Council, the most widely used standard-setting body in the country. Until 2022, PA automatically adopted these updates through the Department of Labor and Industry. However, a Commonwealth Court decision struck down that process as an unconstitutional delegation of legislative authority, leaving the state reliant on outdated 2018 standards with no mechanism to adopt future updates. Senate Bill 867, now Act 16 of 2026, addresses that gap by establishing a clear framework for reviewing and adopting updated accessibility codes. The law empowers the PA Accessibility Advisory Board to lead the process, ensuring decisions are informed by individuals with lived experience and subject matter expertise. Under the new law, proposed updates will include a public comment period, at least one public hearing, and a thorough evaluation of the impact on public health, safety, and welfare, as well as economic considerations and technical feasibility.
