REMARKS
Council Member Brooks-Powers addresses the importance of Intro 138-A for deaf and hard of hearing accessibility
0:02:21
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Council Member Selvena N. Brooks-Powers expresses her support for Intro 138-A, a bill aimed at improving accessibility for deaf and hard of hearing individuals in New York City. She emphasizes the importance of equal access to public information and emergency services for all New Yorkers, regardless of ability.
- The bill mandates public service announcements in American Sign Language on Link NYC kiosks to promote services like text-to-911 and video relay.
- Brooks-Powers acknowledges the contributions of deaf and hard of hearing advocates in shaping the legislation.
- She views this as a step towards making the city safer, more connected, and more equitable.
Selvena N. Brooks-Powers
0:02:21
Thank you, and good morning.
0:02:23
I'd like to start by thanking you, chair Gutierrez, for your leadership in advancing this important legislation through the committee on technology.
0:02:33
I am proud that the council is moving forward today with intro one thirty eight, a crucial step to ensure that our deaf and hard of hearing neighbors are fully included in the city's communication and public safety infrastructure.
0:02:48
Every New Yorker, regardless of ability, must have equal access to vital public information and emergency services.
0:02:59
While progress has been made, too many members of the deaf and hard of hearing community remain unaware of essential resources like text to 911 and video relay services.
0:03:14
This bill ensures that these services are prominently promoted through public service announcements on Link NYC kiosks using American sign language and captions to make the information truly accessible.
0:03:31
By ensuring all communities are included in our public messaging, we are making our city safer, more connected, and more equitable.
0:03:41
I am deeply grateful to the deaf and hard of hearing community and the many advocates who have worked tirelessly on this issue.
0:03:50
Together, we are taking a meaningful step forward toward a more inclusive city.
0:03:57
Thank you.