The proposed bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 47-11D-5, which mandates that exhibitors of digital motion pictures operating theatres in multiple locations within the state provide open captioning for at least two showings per week of each film that is available with this feature. Additionally, the bill requires that audio description services be made available upon request for any digital motion picture that offers this option, and each theatre must have a minimum of two audio description devices.

The bill also outlines specific exceptions to these requirements, including drive-in theatres, those with fewer than six screens, theatres lacking a compatible digital projection system, films shown fewer than eight times in a week, and any motion picture screened more than 20 days after its premiere at the theatre. Furthermore, the legislation ensures that exhibitors are not obligated to purchase new equipment if it would impose an undue burden or fundamentally alter the theatre's operations.

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