Texas Senate Bill SB2108

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to registration and regulation of real-time captioning providers; imposing a civil penalty; authorizing fees.

Impact

The implementation of SB2108 is expected to enhance the quality and reliability of real-time captioning across various settings, such as educational institutions and public events. By creating a registry of certified captioning providers, the bill aims to promote accountability and ensure that only trained individuals are allowed to offer these services, thereby providing more consistent support to the deaf and hard of hearing community. Furthermore, the establishment of fees to cover the costs associated with the certification process may generate revenue that can be utilized for the administration and enforcement of this chapter.

Summary

Senate Bill 2108, known as the Act relating to registration and regulation of real-time captioning providers, aims to establish a certification process for individuals wishing to provide real-time captioning services in Texas. The bill seeks to define the role of real-time captioning providers and to set forth the requirements for obtaining a certificate of registration, which is mandated for anyone wishing to engage in this profession. This regulation is intended to ensure that captioning services are provided by qualified individuals, improving accessibility for individuals who are deaf or have hearing impairments.

Contention

While the intent of SB2108 is to support individuals with hearing impairments through improved captioning services, there may be concerns regarding the potential barriers created for new providers entering the market due to certification requirements. Critics may argue that the cost and complexity of obtaining certification could limit the availability of affordable services or create a shortage of captioning providers in certain areas. Additionally, the bill imposes civil penalties for violations, which could deter some individuals from pursuing work in this area, particularly if they are uninformed about the regulations.

Notable_points

Overall, SB2108 represents a significant step towards standardizing the practice of real-time captioning in Texas. It places an emphasis on ethical standards, confidentiality, and ongoing education for providers, which are critical factors in ensuring that the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing are consistently met. The enforcement mechanisms outlined in the bill indicate a commitment to maintaining high standards within the profession, though it will be essential to monitor the impacts on both supply and accessibility of captioning services following its implementation.