Assembly Bill 285 mandates the establishment of a public protective services hearing protection program by the Department of Transportation (DOT). This program is designed to provide law enforcement and fire protective agencies with hearing protection devices that meet specific criteria. The devices must be commercially available, reusable, designed to fit completely within the ear canal, have a minimum noise reduction rating of 25 decibels, and a maximum output of 80 decibels. The DOT is responsible for obtaining these devices from manufacturers and supplying them to agencies upon request.

The bill outlines the responsibilities of the DOT in administering the program, including the procurement of hearing protection devices and the provision of these devices to agencies in the quantities they deem necessary. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and hearing protection of personnel in public protective services, ensuring they have access to effective hearing protection while performing their duties.