Co-Sponsorship Memo Details

Access has long been a primary concern for people with disabilities, and for most of our history such questions have been confined to matters of the physical world. Thanks to committed advocates, audible crosswalks, wheelchair ramps and tactile elevator buttons have become commonplace. However, in the 21st century, digital accessibility is a critical aspect of inclusion that must be assured.
 
Essentially, nearly all life-sustaining services are more easily accessed today online. This includes government services at every level. Public sites must lead the way in making sure that their online offerings are designed with accessibility in mind from the start. Standards for digital accessibility have been established by the W3C Web Accessibility Initiative, and many businesses and public entities are working toward aligning their online offerings with these standards. Currently in Pennsylvania, a policy exists requiring a minimum level of accessibility for agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction - but Pennsylvania should lead in digital accessibility, and it must do so in all levels of government.
 
That is why I will be introducing legislation that will codify the right of people with disabilities in our Commonwealth to accessible digital content on all state and local government websites. Ensuring that digital content is perceivable, operable, understandable and robust is essential for providing access for all Pennsylvanians to the information and services they need.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation and helping to ensure that digital content offered by state and local government is accessible to people with disabilities. Attached is the draft language

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