Bill > A01495

This bill requires public buildings that contain areas of public assembly or service to install and maintain induction loop listening systems, which are specialized audio technologies that help people who are deaf or hard of hearing better receive sound through hearing aids or cochlear implants with telecoil features. The bill broadly defines "areas of public assembly or service" to include diverse locations such as auditoriums, theaters, courtrooms, medical facilities, pharmacies, banks, restaurants, and other public spaces. Building owners must not only install these systems but also post clear signage indicating their availability and submit a biennial self-certification form to the state fire prevention and building code council confirming the system's functionality. The bill updates existing public buildings law by replacing terminology from "assistive" to "induction loop" listening systems and provides detailed definitions of the technology and applicable spaces. The state fire prevention and building code council is required to update relevant building and fire codes to implement these provisions, and the law will take effect seven months after it becomes official, giving public buildings time to comply with the new requirements.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1495