S.B. 1155 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS S.B. 1155 By: Shapleigh State Affairs Committee Report (Unamended) BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Currently, Section 2157.005 of the Government Code contains a technology access clause which generally requires both visual and nonvisual access to automated information systems (AIS). This clause must be included in all documents (e.g. offers, quotes, etc.) and contracts relating to the procurement of AIS products that are entered into by the state or state agencies. The clause requires the vendor to represent and warrant equal access by both visual and nonvisual means, and to include other stipulations making products accessible to the blind and visually impaired. The nature and requirements of the jobs of emergency response personnel, police, and firefighters preclude persons with visual impairments from performing certain jobs. As a result, it is not practical for the wireless communications devices used by these emergency response personnel to meet the requirements of the technology access clause. The purpose of Senate Bill 1155 is to exempt wireless communication devices purchased for use by peace officers, firefighters, and other emergency response personnel from the technology access clause specified in Section 2157.005 of the Government Code. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY It is the opinion of the committee that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution. ANALYSIS Senate Bill 1155 amends Section 2157.005 of the Government Code to exempt wireless communication devices purchased for use by peace officers, firefighters, and other emergency response personnel from the requirement specified in that section of that code. EFFECTIVE DATE Upon passage, or, if the Act does not receive the necessary vote, the Act takes effect September 1, 2003.