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Communication and Video Accessibility: New Standards for People with Disabilities

This act aims to improve access to communication and video content for people with disabilities. It introduces new rules for closed captioning, audio description, and telecommunication services to ensure equal access to information and entertainment in daily life.
Key points
More Closed Captioning and Audio Description: TV and internet programs will need better closed captioning and audio description, including for live and user-generated content.
Easier Video Conferencing: Video conferencing services must offer built-in closed captioning, visual descriptions, and better compatibility with assistive technologies.
Improved Services for DeafBlind Individuals: Increased support for equipment distribution programs and communication facilitation services for DeafBlind individuals.
Easier Equipment Use: Video playback devices (TVs, set-top boxes) will have easier access to closed captioning and audio description settings, including dedicated buttons.
Access to Emergency Services: Enhancements to Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) aim to provide deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind individuals with equal access to 911 and other emergency services.
Monitoring Emerging Technologies: The Commission will regularly assess whether new technologies (e.g., virtual reality, AI) are accessible to people with disabilities and implement appropriate regulations.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_4858
Sponsor: Rep. Eshoo, Anna G. [D-CA-16]
Process start date: 2023-07-25
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Communications, Video, and Technology Accessibility Act of 2023

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_4858.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-07-25.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • More Closed Captioning and Audio Description: TV and internet programs will need better closed captioning and audio description, including for live and user-generated content.
  • Easier Video Conferencing: Video conferencing services must offer built-in closed captioning, visual descriptions, and better compatibility with assistive technologies.
  • Improved Services for DeafBlind Individuals: Increased support for equipment distribution programs and communication facilitation services for DeafBlind individuals.
  • Easier Equipment Use: Video playback devices (TVs, set-top boxes) will have easier access to closed captioning and audio description settings, including dedicated buttons.
  • Access to Emergency Services: Enhancements to Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) aim to provide deaf, hard of hearing, and DeafBlind individuals with equal access to 911 and other emergency services.
  • Monitoring Emerging Technologies: The Commission will regularly assess whether new technologies (e.g., virtual reality, AI) are accessible to people with disabilities and implement appropriate regulations.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Eshoo, Anna G. [D-CA-16].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-25.

CATEGORIES

Media and Culture Informatization