Relates to the accessibility by blind and visually impaired persons to automated teller machines

2 Co-sponsors

• Ruben Diaz
• Liz Krueger

Title of bill

An act to amend the general business law, in relation to accessibility by blind and visually impaired persons to automated teller machines

Purpose

This legislation would better enable blind and visually handicapped persons to utilize automated teller machines.

Summary of provisions

A new section 399-i is added to the general business law. Section 399-i(1) defines the term "automated teller machine".

Section 399-e(2) Provides that no ATMs may be sold In the State of New York without raised lettering and/or Braille lettering or unless the number size or font can be enlarged by the push of a button.

Section 399-e(3) Provides that every ATM provider shall provide verbal assistance or instruction in Braille in the use of ATMs provided by such provider.

Section 399-e(4) Provides that in the event that an ATM is not modified in accordance with section 2 the machine provider shall make modifications or adaptations to make the machine fully accessible and usable by blind and visually impaired persons.

Section 399-e(5) Provides for a civil fine of 2,500 dollars for each machine sold in violation of section 2 and a civil fine of 1,000 dollars per day per machine for violations of section 3 or 4.

Existing law

There are many laws to protect the civil rights of blind and visually impaired persons, however, there is currently no requirement for automated teller machines to be equipped to provide greater access for visually impaired persons.

Justification

In today's modern, fast-paced economy many people enjoy the convenience of using automated teller machines rather than waiting in line to do their banking. Unfortunately, although some ATMs are accessible to blind and visually impaired people most are not. Additionally, even in the event that an ATM is equipped with raised or Braille letters and numbers on the keypad the on-screen visual display is often too small to be properly read. Technology exists where on-screen information can be audibly verbalized to facilitate use by blind and visually impaired persons. New York State has a long history and tradition of helping those with disabilities overcome their physical limitations and become more active in society. This bill continues this great tradition.

Legislative history

S.5808 of 2007 05/11/07 Referred to Consumer Protection

Fiscal implications

None.

Local fiscal implications

None.

Effective date

This act shall take effect on the 1st of January next succeeding the date on which it shall have become a law, provided, however, that effective immediately, the addition, amendment, and/or repeal of any rules or regulations necessary for the implementation of the foregoing section of this act on its effective date is authorized and directed to be made and completed on or before such effective date.