The proposed bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 47-11D-5, which mandates that certain theatres provide accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. Specifically, it requires exhibitors operating multiple locations in the state to offer open captioning for at least two showings per week of each digital motion picture that includes this feature. Additionally, upon request, theatres must provide audio descriptions for digital films that offer this service and ensure they have at least two audio description devices available.

The bill also includes provisions to protect exhibitors from undue burdens, stating that they are not required to purchase new equipment if it would impose significant hardship or fundamentally alter the theatre. Furthermore, several exceptions are outlined, exempting drive-in theatres, those with fewer than six screens, theatres lacking digital projection systems that support open captioning, films shown fewer than eight times in a week, and any film shown more than 20 days after its premiere at the theatre.

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