The Senate Judiciary Committee met Monday afternoon advancing two bills regarding hearing impairment accessibility in movie theaters and conviction procedures in West Virginia.
Senate Bill 493 would require larger movie theaters in West Virginia to offer at least two open-captioned shows per week for films that are available with captions.
This bill would also require audio description to be provided upon request when available. Showings that are drive-ins, smaller, limited, or without compatible equipment are exempt from the legislation under this bill.
This bill is intended to expand access to entertainment for West Virginians with hearing or vision impairments while balancing concerns from smaller theater operators.
Supporters of the bill expressed that the bill promotes inclusion without placing an excessive burden on local businesses.
Following discussion, the bill was reported to the full Senate with a recommendation for passage.
Senate Bill 799 would update eviction procedures in West Virginia.
This bill would require the court to schedule a hearing within 5 to 10 judicial days when a landlord files an eviction petition. Under the legislation, the landlord must properly serve the tenant with a notice of the hearing. The tenants would also be able to file and serve a written defense within five days of receiving notice of the petition.
Senator Ryan W. Weld (R – Brooke, 01) proposed an amendment by adding the phrase “by the petitioner” to clarify who is to file the receipt of return of service or return receipt to the court.
The amendment was adopted.
The bill, as amended, was reported to the full Senate with a recommendation of passage.
