Requires a motion picture theater that offers more than ten motion picture showings per week to provide scheduled showings of motion pictures with open motion picture captioning such that at least one quarter of all showings of a motion picture with four or more showings during a one-week time period shall have open motion picture captioning; provides exceptions and penalties for violations.
The bill's enactment would lead to significant changes in the operational practices of motion picture theaters across New York State. The requirement for open captioning represents a proactive step towards making cultural experiences more inclusive. The law emphasizes that theaters must advertise these captioned showings in the same manner as their standard showings, ensuring that the information is readily available to the public. Compliance documentation would be required to be maintained for three years, thus instituting an accountability mechanism for theaters.
Bill A04628 mandates that motion picture theaters providing more than ten showings per week must schedule at least 25% of their showings with open motion picture captioning. The bill specifically requires that a motion picture with four or more showings within a week include open captioning for no more than four showings of the same film. This regulation is aimed at increasing inclusivity and accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing by ensuring they have access to the same entertainment options as other audiences.
While the bill is largely viewed as a positive step towards enhancing accessibility, there are concerns among some theater owners regarding the potential financial burden and logistical challenges of implementing these requirements. Critics argue that the additional operational demands could impact smaller theaters disproportionately, raising issues about the sustainability of such mandates. Furthermore, there is concern about whether this legislation might conflict with existing local regulations, particularly in municipalities that may have already established their own guidelines for open captioning.
This bill serves not only to enhance the cultural environment for the hearing impaired, but also to set a precedent for similar laws in other entertainment sectors, potentially influencing how accessibility is approached statewide.