TDPH Monthly Newsletter

In December, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) revisited rules regarding the closed captioning of IP-delivered video programming by issuing a Public Notice seeking comment on the issue.  The notice coincides with a letter written by Senators Mark Pryor (D-Ark) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass) expressing their support in reconsideration of the matter.

In November, the United States District Court found that New York City failed to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities when planning for and responding to disasters in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The court highlighted that the plan does not include provisions for the accessibility of transportation, emergency shelters, or emergency communications for people with disabilities.

In October, rules pursuant to Sections 204 and 205 of the CVAA went into effect requiring navigation devices and other digital apparatus used to receive or play back video programming to be accessible to people with visual and auditory disabilities.  The rules require audio output for all essential functions needed for video reception and playback while also requiring a button, key or icon for consumers to easily access closed captioning or video description, depending on the device.

This month, The Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) issued a Public Notice [EB Docket No. 04-296] seeking comment on issues identified following the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS).  Although the test was regarded as successful, the Bureau is seeking comment on technical and accessibility issues identified during the test. 

In August, the FCC issued a Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to revise the rules for Internet Protocol Captioned Telephone Service ( IP CTS); addressing improper practices.  The new rules prohibit IP CTS providers from providing financial incentives or awards to entice customers to register for the service, while also requiring all new and existing IP CTS customers to provide proof of eligibility.