Panel approves bill requiring mask accommodations for communication with deaf or hard-of-hearing clients during emergencies

Senator Hester presented a bill — described in committee as having been narrowed in scope — that would require professionals to accommodate clients who are deaf or hard of hearing, including lowering a face covering during a declared emergency if needed to communicate, or otherwise using text or handwritten messages.

Hester said the change represents a basic accommodation professionals should provide and noted the bill had been narrowed after negotiation. There was no public testimony and the committee passed the bill by voice vote.