Chairwoman
Rosenworcel Proposes the Requirement of Video Conferencing Services to
Integrate Sign-Language and Accessibility Support Directly into Platforms
If Adopted,
First Time Communications Act Accessibility Requirements to Apply to Video
Conferencing
Federal
Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced she shared a
proposal with her fellow Commissioners that would for the first time require
video conferencing platforms, like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Webex, to comply
with the accessibility requirements under the Communications Act and agency
rules that govern interoperable video conferencing services.
“The pandemic taught us all the value of video
conferencing—to stay connected, to get work done, to stay in touch with our
doctors, and much more. But for many people with disabilities, making
effective use of these platforms continues to be a challenge,” said Chairwoman
Jessica Rosenworcel. “Today, I’ve proposed taking a bold step in ensuring
that video conferencing platforms are usable by all who rely on them to stay
connected to their family, friends, co-workers, and community.”
The Chairwoman circulated three related
accessibility proposals, as summarized:
- A Report and Order
that finds that the accessibility requirements of section 716 of the Act and
Part 14 of the Commission’s rules apply to all services and equipment meeting
the definition of “interoperable video conferencing service”.
-
A Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking (NPRM) to amend Part 14 of Commission rules to add specific
performance objectives for enhancing the accessibility of interoperable video
conferencing services, including: speech-to-text (captioning) capabilities;
text-to-speech capabilities; and enabling the use of American Sign Language
(ASL) interpreting. Additionally, the NPRM explores whether the Interstate
Telephone Relay Fund can be used to support the integrated provision of relay
service in video conferences, without connecting via a dial-up telephone call.
-
An Order that waives
for Video Relay Service (VRS) providers for one year, subject to conditions, a
rule that restricts VRS users’ ability to turn off their video cameras when not
actively participating in a video conference.
Source Federal Communications Commission media announcement