The proposed bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 47-11D-5, which focuses on enhancing accessibility for motion picture exhibitors. It allows exhibitors operating eight or more screens across multiple locations in the state to provide open captioning for at least two showings per week of each motion picture that is available with open captioning. Additionally, the bill mandates that audio descriptions be provided upon request for any motion picture that offers this feature.

The bill also includes provisions to prevent undue burdens on exhibitors, stating that they are not required to purchase new equipment to comply with these requirements if it would result in significant hardship or fundamentally alter the theater. Furthermore, several exceptions to the open-captioning requirements are outlined, including drive-in theaters, those with fewer than eight screens, theaters lacking digital projection systems that support open-caption files, and specific conditions related to the frequency and timing of motion picture showings.

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