Bill > A03588

This bill amends the New York Public Officers Law to enhance accessibility for deaf and hard of hearing individuals at public meetings and hearings. It requires public officers and bodies to make reasonable efforts to provide qualified interpreters at no cost when requested in writing within a reasonable timeframe. Starting January 1, 2028 for public hearings and January 1, 2026 for public meetings, any rooms accommodating more than 100 people must be equipped with an assistive listening system, which is defined as specialized acoustic communication equipment designed to improve sound transmission and reception. These systems can include various technologies like AM/FM modulation, audio induction loops, infrared sound, or hardwire systems. The bill also specifies that these requirements are subject to an "undue hardship" exception, meaning public bodies are not required to provide interpretation or assistive listening systems if doing so would pose significant challenges. The changes aim to ensure more inclusive and accessible public meetings and hearings for individuals with hearing impairments, expanding on existing accessibility laws that previously focused primarily on physical access for people with disabilities.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3588