Khan ‘Michael’s Law’ Bill Highlighted in House Committee Hearing

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    March 21, 2024 | 1:06 PM

PHILADELPHIA, March 21 – Today, the Pennsylvania House Tourism and Economic and Recreational Development Committee held a hearing at the Woodmere Art Museum about legislation introduced by state Rep. Tarik Khan, D-Phila.

Khan’s bill would require venues to waive admission fees for personal care attendants.

This legislation is called “Michael’s Law” in honor of Michael Anderson, a Pennsylvania man with cerebral palsy, who was forced to pay a dual fee for entrance to a local museum because he required a paid personal-care aide to accompany him.

“People with disabilities who require a personal care attendant should not have to pay double admission to go to a venue — once for themself and one for their vital caregiver,” Khan said. “Just as we wouldn't charge a EMT to enter a stadium because they were responding to a 911 call, we shouldn’t be charging people twice to enter a venue. This simple allowance opens venues for persons often marginalized in our society, and it is the right thing to do.” 

Committee Chair Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery, echoed Khan’s sentiment for this legislation.

“This legislation will help to ensure that those with disabilities are able to bring their caregivers with them to visit sports arenas, museums, theaters, and other venues,” she said.

The committee heard from testifiers Michael Anderson, Legislative Advocate for the ARC of Philadelphia, and his father; Dr. Josie Badger, Doctor of Healthcare Ethics, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and President of J. Badger Consulting; Rusty Baker, Executive Director for PA Museums; and Bill Valerio, Director and CEO of Woodmere Art Museum.

The audience was filled with students and teachers from three local public schools, who came at the invitation of Khan.

Today’s hearing can be viewed in its entirety at:

https://youtu.be/LuDEqJCN6Sc?list=PLjtqNtfs0bgXWoRkiGRAmEloE30lbPEMy