The proposed bill aims to enhance communication access for inmates who are deaf, hard of hearing, or severely speech impaired in Ohio's correctional facilities. It mandates that both municipal and county correctional facilities, as well as state correctional institutions, must provide these inmates with access to teletypewriters (TTYs) at no cost. The bill defines "county correctional facility" and "municipal correctional facility," and specifies that these facilities cannot deny access to TTYs for eligible inmates.
Specifically, the bill enacts new sections 341.193, 753.022, and 5120.052 of the Revised Code, which outline the requirements for providing TTY access. Each section includes definitions for the terms used, ensuring clarity in the implementation of the law. The provisions emphasize the obligation of correctional facilities to accommodate the communication needs of inmates with disabilities, thereby promoting inclusivity and accessibility within the correctional system.