Requires public officers and bodies to provide interpreters and assistive listening devices for the hearing impaired at public hearings under certain conditions

2 Co-sponsors

• James S. Alesi
• John A. DeFrancisco

Title of bill

An act to amend the public officers law, in relation to the accessibility of public hearings and meetings

Purpose of bill

To provide interpreters for persons with a hearing impairment at public hearings and meetings.

Summary of specific provisions

Amends §74-a of the Public Officers Law requiring the services of interpreters for persons with a hearing impairment be made available upon request of a person with a hearing impairment at public hearings. Amends § 103 of the Public Officers Law adding a new subdivision (c) to ensure the provision of interpreters at meetings conducted by public bodies.

Justification

The services of interpreters for individuals with a hearing impairment are essential if such persons are to fully participate in public meetings conducted by governmental bodies. Similar provisions exist for administrative rule making proceedings. Individuals with a hearing impairment who wish to attend such meetings or hearings would be required to request in advance the services of an interpreter and the public body would be required to engage the services of a qualified sign language interpreter to interpret the proceedings of the meeting or hearing.

Fiscal implications

Negligible cost associated with the hiring of interpreters for the deaf on a meeting per meeting basis. Average per hour costs of interpreters range from $25 to $35.

Legislative history

2006: Senate 3rd Reading Calendar/Passed Assembly 2007: Senate 3rd Reading Calendar/Passed Assembly 2008: Senate Rules Committee

Effective date

January 1, 2010.