We go to work and to school. We go shopping. We go to the dentist. We get our hair cut. Getting around our communities is a normal part of our daily lives. Something we take for granted. Many of us have options and choices. We can grab a cab, catch a bus, take a train.

What about people with disabilities? Many people with disabilities don't have the same kinds of options for getting around. Lack of access to transportation is what decides what they can or can't do.

About the accessible transportation standard: Where we are now

This standard aims to help public transportation providers increase accessibility for people with disabilities by:

• making sure that public transit vehicles have accessibility features, such as low-floor access for wheelchairs and mobility devices, visual and verbal announcements, and lighting
• improving specialized transit systems so people with disabilities have access to the same fares and hours of service as conventional transit
• offering people with disabilities assistance as they get on and off public transit vehicles.

The final proposed standard has now been submitted to the Minister of Community and Social Services for consideration as law.