New York Senate Bill S02634

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/25
• Refer: 1/22/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Requires public buildings which are or contain an area of public assembly or service to have equipped and installed an induction loop listening system for use by persons who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Summary

S02634 would amend New York’s Public Buildings Law to require new public buildings that are or contain an “area of public assembly or service” to be equipped with an induction loop listening system for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The bill replaces older language referring to “assistive listening systems” with a more specific definition of induction loop technology, including hardwired loop systems and countertop versions that transmit sound directly to hearing aids and cochlear implants with telecoil features. The bill also requires owners of covered public buildings that have these systems to post conspicuous signage indicating the system is available and to complete a biennial self-certification confirming the system remains functional. In addition, it directs the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council to develop standards for these systems and update applicable building and fire codes to implement the law. The act would take effect seven months after becoming law.

Impact

The bill would expand and clarify accessibility requirements in the Public Buildings Law by mandating induction loop listening systems in a broad range of public assembly and service spaces, including auditoriums, meeting rooms, courtrooms, libraries, pharmacies, medical waiting areas, bank teller areas, restaurants, grocery checkout areas, and similar locations. It would also impose ongoing compliance duties on building owners for signage and periodic self-certification, while shifting responsibility to the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council to establish technical standards and align building and fire codes with the new requirements.

Sentiment

The available record shows no committee transcript or vote history, so there is no documented debate or recorded opposition in the materials provided. Based on the bill text alone, the measure appears to be framed as an accessibility and public accommodation improvement for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, suggesting an overall supportive policy intent rather than a controversial one.

Contention

The main potential points of contention are likely to be implementation and cost: building owners may face expenses to install induction loop systems, post signage, and complete recurring self-certifications, and state code officials would need to develop and enforce standards. Another possible issue is the breadth of the covered spaces, since the bill reaches many types of public assembly and service areas beyond traditional auditoriums or hearing rooms. No specific objections or supporters are identified in the provided materials.