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Notice

The Public Right-of-Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) rulemaking has concluded. The PROWAG final rule has been published in the Federal Register. Please visit the Access Board’s PROWAG page for the guidelines.

(Proposed) Passenger Vessels Accessibility Guidelines

About the ADA Passenger Vessels Accessibility Guidelines (PVAG)

photo of a cruise ship The Access Board is developing accessibility guidelines for passenger vessels under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It has proposed guidelines for large vessels for public comment. These guidelines, which are not yet finalized, address onboard routes, vertical access between decks, doorways and coamings, toilet rooms, guest rooms, alarm systems, and other spaces and elements used by passengers.

Background

  • August 12, 1998 – The Board creates Passenger Vessel Access Advisory Committee.

  • December 2000 – The Advisory Committee presents its final report to the Board.

  • November 26, 2004 – The Board issues draft guidelines for large vessels and a notice concerning guidelines for small vessels for public comment.

  • July 7, 2006 – The Board issues revised draft guidelines for large vessels, ferries, and tenders for public comment.

  • August 13, 2007 – The Board creates Passenger Vessel Emergency Alarms Advisory Committee.

  • October 14, 2008 – The Passenger Vessel Emergency Alarms Advisory Committee submits its final report to the Board.

  • June 18, 2013 – The Board releases for public comment proposed guidelines for large passenger vessels: Docket.

Technical Assistance

Contact the Access Board for further guidance on access to passenger vessels