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Bill

S 6382

Relates to requiring certain emergency response vehicles to be equipped with appropriate communication devices for deaf individuals

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Ryan

Requires certain emergency response vehicles to be equipped with communication devices suitable for deaf individuals, improving access and safety during emergencies.

REFERRED TO DISABILITIES
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Bill Summary · S 6382

Summary of Bill S 6382

Quick Facts

  • Bill Number: S 6382
  • Title: Relates to requiring certain emergency response vehicles to be equipped with appropriate communication devices for deaf individuals
  • Sponsor: Christopher Ryan (primary)
  • Status: REFERRED TO DISABILITIES
  • Introduced: March 12, 2025
  • Related Bills: A 10508 (prior-session), A 3386 (companion)

Purpose and Intent

S 6382 proposes that certain emergency response vehicles be equipped with communication devices appropriate for communicating with deaf individuals. The aim is to improve accessibility and effectiveness of emergency services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people during emergencies and urgent responses.

Key Provisions (as indicated by title and status)

  • Requiring emergency response vehicles to be equipped with “appropriate communication devices” for deaf individuals.
  • The bill would likely define standards or criteria for what constitutes “appropriate communication devices” and the circumstances under which they must be provided (exact definitions to be found in the full text).
  • The measure would impose an obligation on entities that operate or deploy emergency response vehicles to ensure compliance with the device requirement.
  • Enforcement, timelines, and any funding or training requirements would be detailed in the full bill and related fiscal notes (not provided in the summary).

Affected Parties and Systems

  • Primary: Agencies and departments operating emergency response vehicles (e.g., police, fire, EMS).
  • Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals who rely on alternative/augmented communication in emergencies.
  • The bill may affect procurement processes, vehicle equipment standards, training programs, and ongoing maintenance.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • Introduced: March 12, 2025
  • Referrals: Referred to the Disabilities committee (listed twice in action notes, indicating formal committee assignment)
  • Next steps typically include committee hearings, potential amendments, and floor consideration.

Relationship to Related Legislation

  • A 3386 (companion bill) appears to be a counterpart in another chamber or session, indicating parallel or supporting efforts to achieve similar goals.
  • A 10508 (prior-session) suggests a previously considered bill with related provisions that may inform current drafting or intent.

Potential Impact and Considerations

  • Accessibility: If enacted, the measure could enhance communication with Deaf individuals during emergencies, potentially improving safety and outcomes.
  • Costs and Implementation: Agencies would face procurement and installation costs for approved devices, plus training for personnel and ongoing maintenance.
  • Definition and Standards: The effectiveness depends on how “appropriate communication devices” are defined (e.g., captioned displays, texting/TTY compatibility, visual alert systems, or interoperable devices). Clear standards will influence feasibility and uniform adoption.
  • Compliance and Oversight: Details on enforcement, audits, and penalties (if any) would shape practical implementation.

Next Steps for Readers

  • Monitor for the release of the full bill text to review precise definitions, device standards, timelines, funding provisions, and enforcement mechanisms.
  • Watch for committee hearings and amendments in the Disabilities committee.
  • Review the companion and related bills (A 3386, A 10508) for cross-chamber alignment and potential differences.

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

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