This bill mandates the provision of sign language interpreters for all sessions and committee meetings of the New Jersey Legislature, ensuring accessibility for individuals with hearing loss. Specifically, it requires that a sign language interpreter provide simultaneous interpretation during each session of the Senate and General Assembly starting from the first day of the seventh month following the bill's effective date. Additionally, from the first day of the 25th month after the effective date, interpreters will also be required for all committee meetings and hearings of standing reference committees in both chambers. The bill stipulates that this requirement applies whether the proceedings are conducted in person or remotely via video.

The Department of Human Services is tasked with coordinating the provision of these interpreters in collaboration with the Office of Legislative Services. The bill defines "sign language" as a visual-gestural language that includes various elements such as facial grammatical markers and fingerspelling. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage, reflecting a commitment to enhancing accessibility within the legislative process.