New York Senate Bill S09888

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/13/26
• Refer: 4/13/26
• Report Pass: 5/12/26

Caption

Requires a motion picture theater that offers more than ten motion picture showings per week to provide scheduled showings of motion pictures with open motion picture captioning such that at least one quarter of all showings of a motion picture with four or more showings during a one-week time period shall have open motion picture captioning; provides exceptions and penalties for violations.

Impact

The impact of this legislation on state laws could be significant, as it would amend the general business law to include specific regulations on motion picture theaters. By enforcing a minimum threshold for open captioning, the bill aims to improve access to entertainment for individuals with hearing disabilities, which is a critical aspect of consumer rights and protections. On the operational side, theaters will need to adjust their scheduling and advertising practices to comply with the new requirements, potentially incurring additional costs but also attracting a broader audience base.

Summary

Bill S09888 aims to enhance accessibility for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing by mandating that motion picture theaters providing more than ten showings per week include scheduled showings of films with open motion picture captioning. Specifically, the bill requires that at least one-quarter of all showings for films that have four or more showings within a week must feature open captioning. This initiative is intended to ensure that a significant portion of films is accessible to those who benefit from such accommodations, thereby promoting inclusivity in entertainment.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding S09888 may center on the potential financial implications it has for smaller theaters. While advocates for the bill argue that it is essential for creating equitable access to media, opponents might contend that the costs associated with implementing open captioning could place an undue burden on businesses, particularly those operating in less profitable areas. Another area for debate may involve the adequacy of current laws regarding accessibility compared to those proposed in this bill, sparking discussions about whether existing regulations should be strengthened or reformed.