Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas Senate Bill SB284

Introduced

3/2/23

Refer

3/3/23

Refer

2/23/24

Refer

2/28/24

Report Pass

3/21/24

Failed

4/30/24

Caption

Establishing the blind information access act to require the state library to provide on-demand information access services to persons who are blind, visually impaired, deafblind or print disabled.

Impact

The establishment of the blind information access fund is a significant component of SB284, as it requires funds to be allocated from the Kansas Universal Service Fund to support these initiatives. The state librarian will need to report costs associated with these services to the legislature annually, ensuring fiscal accountability and transparency. As such, this bill may lead to improved services for visually impaired individuals across the state, promoting further integration and accessibility in everyday information consumption.

Summary

Senate Bill 284, known as the Blind Information Access Act, aims to enhance accessibility to information for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, deafblind, or print disabled. The bill mandates the state librarian to contract with an organization to deliver on-demand information access services that provide digital content through various technologies such as audio and braille. This approach seeks to ensure that these populations have timely access to essential information, encompassing local news, emergency alerts, and publications relevant to Kansas.

Contention

While the bill presents a progressive step towards inclusivity, potential points of contention could arise during discussions about budget allocations and the selection of the third-party organization that will provide these services. Stakeholders may express concerns regarding the quality of services rendered and the efficacy of the competitive bidding process outlined in the bill. Moreover, ensuring that the funds are consistently sufficient to support these initiatives could pose ongoing challenges.

Latest SB284 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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