On multiple occasions, I have met people in wheelchairs and witnessed their struggles firsthand. I've seen them face the daunting and often impossible task of accessing upper floors in buildings without elevators. Their struggles deeply touched me and ignited a belief in me: that everyone, regardless of physical or mental disability, deserves equal access to housing.

Therefore, it's absolutely necessary that we ban walk-up apartments in Pennsylvania and require all apartment buildings to have elevators installed. Right now, many people in our communities face daily discrimination due to the lack of accessibility in apartment buildings. This isn't just an inconvenience—it's a violation of their basic human rights.

Elevators would provide vital accessibility for thousands of Pennsylvanians living with disabilities, as well as for the elderly and families with young children who may struggle with stairs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 26% of adults in the United States have some type of disability, and mobility impairment is one of the most common types. This is too significant a concern to ignore any longer.

Requiring elevators in all apartment buildings would not only make life easier for so many, but it would be an important step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable society. It is estimated that including elevators increases construction costs by about 2-5%. While this is a significant figure, the cost of inaccessibility—socially and economically—is much higher.

This initiative is about fighting discrimination and supporting our community members. We cannot stand by while some of our neighbors are denied access to basic living facilities that many of us take for granted. Let's make Pennsylvania a more welcoming place for everyone.

Stand with me in advocating for positive change. Sign the petition and help ensure that all apartments in Pennsylvania are accessible to everyone.