The proposed bill establishes the "Blind Information Access Act," which mandates the state librarian to contract with an organization to provide on-demand information access services for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, deafblind, or print disabled. These services will include access to digital content through various formats such as audio, electronic text, and braille, covering a range of publications and emergency alerts. The bill also creates the "Blind Information Access Fund," which will be financed through transfers from the Kansas Universal Service Fund (KUSF). The state librarian is required to estimate the costs of these services annually and report to the legislature, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately.

Additionally, the bill amends K.S.A. 66-2010 to outline the responsibilities of the KUSF administrator, including the collection and distribution of funds to support the contracted information access services. It specifies that the KUSF administrator will transfer certified amounts from the KUSF to the state treasurer for the blind information access fund in equal monthly installments. The bill also repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 66-2010, streamlining the process for funding these essential services.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 66-2010