"This page is a digitally archived AccessInfo Announcement"
On July 19, 2024, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released the Closed Captioning Display Settings Report and Order which adopted a rule requiring manufacturers of covered apparatus and multichannel video programming distributors (MVPDs) to make closed captioning display settings readily accessible to individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing. The Order gives manufacturers and MVPDs the flexibility to decide how they will meet the “readily accessible” standard, and clarifies that the FCC will evaluate accessibility by evaluating the following factors: proximity, discoverability, previewability, and consistency and persistence.
On August 15, 2024, the FCC released a Public Notice announcing the effective date of this rule. The rule is effective September 16, 2024. However, manufacturers and MVPDs will not be required to comply with the amended rule until August 17, 2026, or after the Office of Management and Budget completes its review of any information collection requirements required under the Paperwork Reduction Act, whichever is later.
Link to the Closed Captioning Display Settings Report and Order:
URL: https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-acts-improve-accessibility-closed-captioning-settings
Link to the Public Notice announcing the effective date:
URL: https://www.fcc.gov/document/closed-captioning-display-settings-order-published-federal-register
For additional information, contact Diana Sokolow, Media Bureau, Policy Division, at (202) 418-2120, or via e-mail at Diana.Sokolow@fcc.gov. Individuals who use videophones and are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) may call the FCC’s ASL Consumer Support Line at (844) 432-2275 (videophone).