This bill mandates that all public accommodations, such as restaurants and hotels, must enable closed captioning for all television programming and online broadcasts available to the public during their operating hours. The only exception to this requirement is if a member of the public specifically requests that closed captioning be turned off on a particular device. In such cases, closed captioning must be reactivated once the individual who made the request stops viewing or leaves the establishment.
Violations of this closed captioning requirement will result in a civil penalty of up to $25 for each infraction. The penalties collected will be directed to the state's general fund, thereby contributing to state revenue. This legislation aims to enhance accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, ensuring they can fully participate in public accommodations.