New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A01403

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  

Caption

Allows public campaign funds to be used for disability access services including but not limited to captioning, sign language interpretation, assistive listening device, Braille, large print, communication access real-time translation and accessible transportation services and to be used for language interpretation and translation services.

Summary

Bill A01403 amends the election law and the administrative code of New York City to allow candidates to use campaign contributions for disability access services and language interpretation and translation services. This includes expenditures for services such as captioning, sign language interpretation, assistive listening devices, Braille, large print, communication access real-time translation (CART), and accessible transportation services. The bill also ensures that public matching funds can be utilized for these services without limitation on the amount that can be allocated.

Impact

The bill impacts state laws by expanding the permissible uses of campaign funds, thereby enhancing accessibility for candidates with disabilities and those needing language assistance. It modifies existing regulations to explicitly include these services, which could lead to increased participation in the electoral process by candidates who require such support. This change could also prompt other states to consider similar amendments to their election laws to promote inclusivity.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A01403 appears to be positive, as it aims to improve accessibility in the electoral process. Discussions in committee may have highlighted the importance of inclusivity and support for candidates with disabilities or language barriers. However, without specific voting history or committee transcripts, the overall sentiment cannot be definitively assessed.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from concerns about the potential misuse of campaign funds or the implications of expanding the allowable expenditures for candidates. Some may argue that this could lead to financial strain on campaign financing systems or raise questions about accountability. However, specific opposition or support from legislators has not been documented in the provided context.

Companion Bills

NY S08450

Same As Allows public campaign funds to be used for disability access services including but not limited to captioning, sign language interpretation, assistive listening device, Braille, large print, communication access real-time translation and accessible transportation services and to be used for language interpretation and translation services.

Previously Filed As

NY S08450

Allows public campaign funds to be used for disability access services including but not limited to captioning, sign language interpretation, assistive listening device, Braille, large print, communication access real-time translation and accessible transportation services and to be used for language interpretation and translation services.

NY A02237

Allows public campaign funds to be used for disability access services including but not limited to captioning, sign language interpretation, assistive listening device, Braille, large print, communication access real-time translation and accessible transportation services and to be used for language interpretation and translation services.

NY SB266

Elections: language accessibility.

NY SB685

School bd. policies; communication & language accessibility for limited English proficient parents.

NY HB1278

School bd. policies; communication & language accessibility for limited English proficient parents.

NY HB2475

AN ACT Relating to providing language accessible public programs, activities, and services conducted, operated, or administered by state agencies;

NY HB4838

Relating to conducting an assessment of language accessibility with respect to certain health and human services programs and 2-1-1 services provided by the Texas Information and Referral Network.

NY HB1464

Language interpretation in health care settings.

NY A00482

Enacts the lab services accessibility act.

NY S03356

Enacts the lab services accessibility act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.