Media Contact: Paloma Perez Paloma.Perez@fcc.gov For Immediate Release CHAIRWOMAN ROSENWORCEL PROPOSES THE REQUIREMENT OF VIDEO CONFERENCING SERVICES TO INTEGRATE SIGN-LANGUAGE AND ACCESSIBILITY SUPPORT DIRECTLY INTO PLATFORMS If Adopted, First Time Communications Act Accessibility Requirements to Apply to Video Conferencing -- WASHINGTON, May 16, 2023—Today, Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced she shared a proposal with her fellow Commissioners that would for the first time require video conferencing platforms, like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Webex, to comply with the accessibility requirements under the Communications Act and agency rules that govern interoperable video conferencing services. “The pandemic taught us all the value of video conferencing—to stay connected, to get work done, to stay in touch with our doctors, and much more. But for many people with disabilities, making effective use of these platforms continues to be a challenge,” said Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “Today, I’ve proposed taking a bold step in ensuring that video conferencing platforms are usable by all who rely on them to stay connected to their family, friends, co-workers, and community.” The Chairwoman circulated three related accessibility proposals, as summarized: · A Report and Order that finds that the accessibility requirements of section 716 of the Act and Part 14 of the Commission’s rules apply to all services and equipment meeting the definition of “interoperable video conferencing service”. · A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to amend Part 14 of Commission rules to add specific performance objectives for enhancing the accessibility of interoperable video conferencing services, including: speech-to-text (captioning) capabilities; text-to-speech capabilities; and enabling the use of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting. Additionally, the NPRM explores whether the Interstate Telephone Relay Fund can be used to support the integrated provision of relay service in video conferences, without connecting via a dial-up telephone call. · An Order that waives for Video Relay Service (VRS) providers for one year, subject to conditions, a rule that restricts VRS users’ ability to turn off their video cameras when not actively participating in a video conference. ### Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).