The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 47-11D-5, which mandates that motion picture exhibitors operating eight or more screens across multiple locations in the state provide open captioning for at least two showings per week of each film that is available with open captioning. Additionally, the bill requires that audio descriptions be provided upon request for any motion picture that offers this feature. To alleviate potential burdens on exhibitors, the bill specifies that they are not required to purchase new equipment if it would impose an undue burden or fundamentally alter their theater.

The bill also outlines several exceptions to the open captioning requirements. These exceptions include drive-in theaters, theaters with fewer than eight screens, theaters lacking a compatible digital projection system, films shown fewer than eight times within a week, and any motion picture screened more than 20 days after its premiere at that theater. This legislation aims to enhance accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments while considering the operational constraints of various theaters.

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