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HB 1363

Places of Public Accommodation - Captioning for Motion Picture Houses - Alterations

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Harry Bhandari

Maryland requires movie theaters to install captioning in at least one auditorium during renovations to improve accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing patrons.

Hearing 4/01 at 1:00 p.m.
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Bill Summary · HB 1363

Legislative bill overview

HB 1363 requires movie theaters to provide open captioning or closed captioning technology in at least one auditorium per location when undergoing alterations or renovations. The bill classifies captioning as an accessibility requirement for places of public accommodation under Maryland law, similar to wheelchair accessibility standards.

Why is this important

Approximately 48 million Americans are deaf or hard of hearing, and current captioning availability at theaters remains limited. This legislation ensures that hearing-impaired individuals can access entertainment venues on equal terms with other patrons, addressing a documented accessibility gap in the commercial entertainment industry.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Theater owners may argue that installing or maintaining captioning systems during renovations increases operational expenses, potentially affecting smaller independent theaters disproportionately
  • Scope of "alterations": Ambiguity exists regarding what constitutes qualifying alterations (major renovations vs. routine maintenance), which could create compliance disputes and uneven enforcement
  • Technology standards: The bill doesn't specify whether open or closed captioning is preferred, leaving theaters flexibility but potentially creating inconsistent user experiences across venues
  • Applicability timing: Theaters may delay renovations to avoid triggering compliance requirements, or the "alteration" threshold could exempt many existing venues indefinitely

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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