Provides televisions in State buildings shall display closed captioning for programming.
The implementation of A3837 is expected to create a more inclusive environment for visitors and workers in State buildings, as it promotes equal access to information and entertainment programs available on public televisions. The bill applies to State agencies and includes a clear definition of 'closed captioning' as the visual display of written words that represent the audio portion of programming. By ensuring that these systems are in place, the State will help facilitate better communication and engagement for individuals with hearing impairments across various public settings.
Assembly Bill A3837 aims to enhance accessibility for hearing-impaired individuals by requiring that all televisions in State buildings must continuously display closed captioning for all programming where closed captioning is available. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that public facilities are accommodating to individuals with disabilities, particularly those who are hearing-impaired. The legislation specifies that this requirement applies to televisions located in any State building that is used by the public or State employees, underscoring a commitment to inclusivity in public services.
While the bill is largely seen as a positive step towards inclusivity, potential points of contention could arise regarding the cost implications of retrofitting existing television systems in State buildings, especially those manufactured before the bill takes effect. The statute specifies that it does not apply to televisions that cannot accommodate closed captioning, which may lead to discussions around the expenditure involved in updating facilities to comply with the new regulations. Stakeholders may have varying opinions on the prioritization of such accessibility measures versus budget constraints in public spending.