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Bill would add tactile Braille flags at Maryland veterans cemeteries to aid visually impaired veterans
Summary
A measure to place tactile Braille American flags at Maryland's state veterans cemeteries drew unanimous supportive testimony from blind veterans and disability advocates.
Delegate Jennifer K. Kaiser told the committee House Bill 455 would authorize placement of a tactile Braille American flag at each of Maryland's five state veterans cemeteries so veterans and visitors who are blind or visually impaired can discern a memorial flag by touch. "This tactile Braille American flag... is a small yet powerful step in ensuring that all veterans and service members in Maryland are honored inclusively," the sponsor said.
William (Will) Hendrick and Harvey Guerry, both witnesses who described themselves as blind veterans, testified in favor. Hendrick said a tactile flag allows blind people to "maintain the human experience of distinguishing the difference between a flag and a tablecloth." Guerry described learning Braille and the importance of tactile markers for daily life and dignity.
The Department of Disabilities submitted supportive written testimony and the bill carried no opposition in the hearing. The sponsor said the fiscal impact would be minimal — a few hundred dollars per site — and that costs could be absorbed in departmental budgets.
