California Court Reporting and Captioning Week.
By proclaiming this week, ACR14 highlights the contributions of approximately 8,500 court reporters and captioners in California, emphasizing their impact on legal documentation and access to information. It underscores the importance of their work in preserving historical records and ensuring that court proceedings are accurately transcribed. This initiative does not enact any new laws or regulations but serves as a public acknowledgment of the profession’s significance and the need for public awareness and support.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 14 (ACR14), introduced by Assembly member Stone, aims to designate the week of February 6 through February 13, 2021, as California Court Reporting and Captioning Week. This resolution is a recognition of the vital role that court reporters and captioners play in society by converting spoken words into text, which has been a necessity throughout history for documenting legal affairs and public discourse. The resolution encourages the Governor to issue a proclamation that would call on the citizens of California to engage in appropriate observances to honor this profession.
The sentiment surrounding ACR14 appears largely positive, reflecting a bipartisan appreciation for the contributions of court reporters and captioners. The resolution garners support across various sectors, including the legal community and advocacy groups. Emphasizing historical context, ACR14 connects the modern-day responsibilities of court reporters to the foundational role of scribes in documenting significant historical events, which fosters respect and recognition of these and their ongoing contributions to democracy and public record.
While the resolution itself is unlikely to encounter substantial opposition, the underlying issues regarding court reporting, such as the challenges faced by court reporters and the need for effective transcription services, can sometimes be contentious. Discussions about the evolution of the profession, the importance of training and funding for transcription services, and accessibility for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community are all points that can prompt dialogue among legislators and stakeholders. However, ACR14 seems to be more of a celebration than a policy-driven bill, minimizing potential contention within legislative discussions.