Work group forwards universal design bill to County Council with technical clarifications

The Prince George's County Universal Design Work Group voted to forward revisions to the county's universal design housing bill to the County Council, moving the draft closer to becoming a council bill.

Kathy Canning, who presented the draft, said the revised draft “basically does 5 things” including adding nine definitions, revising two existing definitions, and clarifying exemptions for plans on file and detailed site plans. She said the ordinance is intended to implement universal design goals that will go into effect on 01/01/2026.

The group discussed and clarified several substantive points during the presentation: how the bill treats existing detailed site plans approved before 01/01/2026, changes to doorway-dimension language, alignment of smoke- and carbon-monoxide-alarm requirements to model building codes, the structure for waiver applications, and administrative fees. After discussion of outstanding legal wording, the chair moved the measure "to move favorable," the motion was seconded and the work group recorded that the motion carried.

Staff and members emphasized that remaining language questions — notably the mechanics of criminal enforcement against entity owners — can be addressed as friendly amendments at the council hearing after consultation with the Office of Law. The work group scheduled follow-up as needed and indicated the bill will proceed through the county council process.