U.S.-funded Ukraine projects would follow disability access standards

Contracts involving U.S. funding would have to follow the specified disability access standards. The rule would cover construction and renovation contracts in Ukraine, including projects funded through named U.S. development and reconstruction bodies. Normal maintenance and certain building-system work would be exempt unless the work affects accessibility. Temporary emergency construction would be exempt, but officials would have to make every effort to meet the standards. The Secretary of State could waive the standards when a waiver serves the U.S. national interest. During emergency construction, the Secretary would have to set aside enough money to give people with disabilities the same access to services as everyone else. Within three months after deciding emergency construction is necessary, the Secretary of State would have to plan for access during the work and meet the standards as far as practical.

Federal money could not support construction or renovation projects that promote separation or institutional placement. The restriction would apply to federal funding for construction and renovation projects.

The Secretary of State would form an expert accessibility group, and the department would report annually to Congress. The group would review emergency exceptions and compliance and work with local organizations to verify covered projects. The group's findings and recommendations would have to appear on a public website that meets the stated web accessibility guidelines. Annual reports would cover federal investment, waivers and their reasons, compliance recommendations, and the group's major results. The group would have to be established within 180 days after enactment, and reports to Congress would be required annually.