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Senator Lewis previews bill to expand communication access for deaf residents

Missouri Senate · February 5, 2026

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Summary

Senate Bill 16 37, offered by Senator Lewis, aims to improve compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act by increasing access to interpreters and other communication services in courts, medical settings and essential areas.

Senator Lewis brought Senate Bill 16 37 to the chamber and explained on the floor that the bill responds to constituent concerns about daily barriers faced by deaf and hard‑of‑hearing residents.

Lewis said the measure would improve compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and provide access to interpreters "in certain situations in like the courts or, doctor's office or other essential areas." He noted he had worked with a constituent who is deaf and described the bill as intended to remove barriers to services.

Why it matters: The proposal would affect state compliance practices and the availability of communication access in public and essential services. The bill was introduced and explained; committee review will determine whether the language moves forward and how it will be implemented.

Procedure: The bill was introduced and explained on the floor; no committee amendments or votes were taken during this session.