This bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 47-11D-5, which mandates that exhibitors of motion pictures operating two or more theatres in multiple locations within the state provide open captioning for at least two showings per week of each film that is available with open captioning. Additionally, the bill stipulates that audio descriptions must be provided upon request for any motion picture that is produced and offered with such descriptions.

The legislation also includes provisions to protect exhibitors from undue financial burden, stating that they cannot be required to purchase new equipment to comply with these requirements if it would result in significant hardship or fundamentally alter their theatre. Furthermore, the requirements do not apply to drive-in movie theatres, ensuring that this regulation is specifically targeted at traditional theatre operators.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 47-11D-5