Relating to open captioning for motion pictures

HB 5491 requires multi-location theatres in West Virginia (operating in more than one location statewide) to provide open captioning for at least two weekly showings of motion pictures that include open captions in their production. It also mandates that these theatres offer audio description upon request, maintaining at least two audio description devices per location. The law does not apply to drive-in theatres, venues with fewer than six screens, non-digital theatres, or films shown infrequently (fewer than eight times weekly) or after 20 days of release. Exceptions include not requiring new equipment purchases if compliance would cause undue financial burden. This bill directly affects accessibility for patrons with hearing or visual impairments in participating multi-location theatres.