HF3328 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Department of Education required to bring awareness of library services for blind and print disabled persons.
Related bill: SF1703
AI Generated Summary
Purpose of the Bill
This bill focuses on improving the accessibility and awareness of library services for individuals who are blind or print disabled in Minnesota. It aims to enhance the support and resources available to these individuals through the Department of Education and relevant agencies.
Main Provisions
Specialized Services: The Minnesota Department of Education is mandated to offer specialized services for individuals who are visually or physically disabled. These services will be provided through the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library, in cooperation with the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled.
Awareness and Online Accessibility: The bill requires the Department of Education to increase the awareness of resources available to blind and print-disabled individuals. The department is encouraged to develop an online, fully accessible website that provides statewide resources, services, and updated information relevant to these individuals.
Interdepartmental Consultation: The Department of Education must work with various departments, including Employment and Economic Development, Health, and Human Services, to ensure comprehensive support. This includes vocational rehabilitation services and other resources promoting vocational and personal independence, including braille and audio services.
Advisory Committee: An advisory committee, consisting of five library users, will be appointed to provide guidance to the Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library. This committee will also consult with the Department of Education to further promote library services to blind and print-disabled individuals.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
The bill amends existing statutes to include clear directives for increasing awareness and ensuring that resources for blind and print-disabled individuals are easily accessible and widely promoted across the state. It also outlines a framework for inter-agency collaboration and the development of an accessible online portal for relevant services.
Relevant Terms
blind, print disabled, library services, Minnesota Braille and Talking Book Library, National Library Service for the Blind, Department of Education, online accessibility, vocational rehabilitation, braille services, audio services, advisory committee.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
| Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| May 15, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading, referred to | Education Policy |
| May 16, 2025 | House | Floor | Action | Author added |
Citations
[
{
"analysis": {
"added": [
"Provisions for consulting with the Department of Education."
],
"removed": [
""
],
"summary": "This section amends the advisory committee guidelines under section 15.059.",
"modified": [
"Details about committee member appointments."
]
},
"citation": "15.059",
"subdivision": ""
}
]