Bill > A05823

This bill amends the New York Executive Law to require that the state's existing population warning system now explicitly include audible alerts for all announcements, with the specific goal of ensuring that critical safety information is accessible to visually impaired individuals. The amendment modifies a section of the law that previously described a system for warning populations who are or may be endangered, now adding language that mandates audible components to make emergency communications inclusive for people with visual disabilities. By requiring these audible alerts, the bill aims to improve emergency communication equity, ensuring that individuals who cannot see visual warning systems (such as text messages, digital signs, or written notifications) can still receive timely and critical safety information through sound-based alerts. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law, giving state agencies time to implement the new accessibility requirements.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5823