SANTA MONICA, CA — Officials of this California city are taking into consideration a proposed code that would require both new homes, as well as major renovations to a home, to provide access for people in wheelchairs.

If this building code is enacted, it would reportedly be the first in the United States that applies to private homes.

Initiated recently, a consultant to the city council is currently looking into the feasibility of this proposal.

Supporters of the new code say it is becoming more important as the U.S. population ages. Critics say the added cost would mean less people would be able to afford homes.

Publication date: 01/01/2002