Places of Public Accommodation - Motion Picture Houses - Captioning
If enacted, HB264 will significantly amend existing state laws by reinforcing the rights of individuals with disabilities to enjoy public accommodations more fully. The inclusion of both closed and open captioning is designed not only to meet legal requirements but also to foster inclusivity within the film industry. By requiring motion picture houses to implement these accessibility measures, the bill aligns state law with broader anti-discrimination efforts aimed at enhancing public access and participation in social and cultural activities for all individuals.
House Bill 264 seeks to enhance accessibility in motion picture houses by mandating that all such establishments provide closed captioning for every screening of a motion picture. This bill is introduced with the objective of ensuring that individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing have equal access to entertainment in public venues. Furthermore, it stipulates that larger motion picture houses—specifically those that operate two or more locations—must also offer open captioning for at least two screenings each week. The bill emphasizes the importance of accommodating individuals with disabilities in public settings.
While there is a strong focus on promoting accessibility, there may be points of contention among theater owners regarding the implementation costs associated with the required captioning technologies. Some owners might express concerns about the operational implications, including staffing requirements and the potential impact on viewership for films marketed without captions, particularly during their opening weeks when theaters are expected to capitalize on ticket sales. Despite these concerns, the overarching theme of the bill advocates for equal rights and opportunities for individuals with disabilities, which may outweigh economic objections.
The effective date of the bill is set for October 1, 2023, giving establishments time to comply with the new requirements. Additionally, the bill exempts theaters from having to provide closed captioning during the first seven days following a film's premiere, recognizing the industry's commercial needs while still promoting broader accessibility over time.