Prepared by: CBS Capitol Business Solutions
March 16, 2015
ABSTRACT:
This research project compares the different approaches to accessibility in transportation taken by governments in Canada and the United States. The study reviews Canada’s legislative and regulatory framework, mechanisms for dispute resolution and complaint systems, and approaches to monitoring, compliance and enforcement, and compares them with those of the United States. The study recognizes that both Canada and the United States base their policies on basic human (civil) rights principles, although Canada does not have prescriptive legislation comparable to the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Air Carrier Access Act. The author provides an analysis of the strengths and weaknesses in both systems; many positive factors in the Canadian approach are identified, as well as areas perceived as having need of improvement. Recommendations address how to approach systemic issues; the monitoring of carriers and service providers’ compliance with regulations and codes of practice; and ways to ensure compliance with universal design concepts and standards for accessibility.
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