Accessibility Legislation

In June 2021, the provincial government passed the Accessible BC Act which—among provincial requirements and a general focus on increasing awareness of accessibility—requires local governments to take action. Local governments are among over 750 public sector organizations listed in the Accessible BC Regulations, and by September 1, 2023 are required to establish:

An accessibility committee
An accessibility plan
A tool to receive feedback on accessibility

These requirements are intended to get organizations planning for accessibility in a way that is informed by people with disabilities. They are flexible and there are lots of different ways to approach the requirements.

The Guidance Document provides additional information about the requirements, and strategies to comply. The document also outlines resources for local governments, and current funding opportunities.

Guidance Document BC Accessibility Hub SPARC BC Funding NIDAR Funding

As part of this legislation, there will be key actions in four different areas during 10 years of implementation.
1. Culture change: There will be an emphasis on ongoing awareness, and working closely with stakeholders and the public to help increase accessibility.
2. Requirements for the BC government: The BC government is required to build a tool to provide feedback to government; develop its own accessibility plan; establish the Provincial Accessibility Committee; and develop initial regulations prescribing organizations. Government will also release accessibility plans on a regular basis.
3. Monitoring and evaluation. The provincial government will report each year on progress and success. The first independent review will occur after five years.
4. Standards development. Standards will be developed two at a time and will be implemented in a phased approach. As implementation begins for a standard, work will begin on developing the next one.