Assembly passes Communication Bill of Rights for people with disabilities

The Assembly passed legislation described on the floor as the New York State Communication Bill of Rights, a measure sponsors said makes New York the first state to enshrine the right of individuals with disabilities to communicate by the method that works for them.

Sponsor remarks: Assemblymember Santa Barbara, who introduced the bill (Assembly number 7363 c on the consent page), said the statute affirms that "Everyone deserves the right to be heard, whether through spoken words, typing, a letter board, communication device, or sign language." He described personal family experience—his son is nonspeaking and uses alternate communication methods—and recounted testimony from Elizabeth Bonker, an advocate and non-speaking leader who uses assistive typing technology.

Support and floor discussion: Members including Miss Walsh, Miss Giglio and Miss Chimpski praised the legislation on the floor, describing the measure as a step to recognize dignity and promote access for nonspeaking people. The floor record shows multiple members explaining their affirmative votes and thanking advocates who supported the bill.

Vote and outcome: The clerk announced the recorded tally as Ayes 134, Nays 0; the bill was passed on the floor and the clerk recorded the result.

Why it matters: Sponsors said the law will require schools, service providers and public programs to recognize and support individuals’ communication needs and to consider assistive and alternative communication methods as a civil right.

Ending: The bill was presented and passed on the Assembly floor with broad bipartisan support; the enrolled bill text and the Assembly journal will contain the statutory language and any implementation directives.