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Committee hears testimony on HB 2180 to create Blind Information Access Fund for Newsline service
Summary
Lawmakers heard proponents say HB 2180 would require the state librarian to contract for on‑demand digital access for blind, visually impaired, deaf‑blind and print‑disabled Kansans and fund it via a transfer from the Kansas Universal Service Fund; witnesses sought stable funding (about $100,000) and outreach to under‑served groups.
The Committee on Energy, Utilities and Telecommunications heard proponent testimony on House Bill 2180, which would establish the Blind Information Access Act and require the state librarian to contract for on‑demand digital access services for people who are blind, visually impaired, deaf‑blind or print‑disabled. The bill creates a Blind Information Access Fund and would direct the administrator of the Kansas Universal Service Fund (KUSF) to transfer certified amounts into that fund; it is drafted to take effect upon publication in the statute book (07/01/2026).
Supporters told the committee the service—often called Newsline—delivers audio, electronic text and braille access to national and local publications and immediate local emergency weather alerts. Tom Page demonstrated…
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