The Nevada Commission for Persons who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing, alongside the Communication Access Services program, is welcoming the community to join a series of town hall meetings in October. These forums aim to gather input from the Deaf and Hard of Hearing populace as part of its preparation for the upcoming legislative session. The commission is scheduled to lay out its proposals that include closed captions in public spaces, the establishment of a deaf school, and American Sign Language credits in high school and college education, according to The Official State of Nevada.
According to a press release from The Official State of Nevada, the community members will also have an opportunity to provide feedback on the commission’s recommendations to the Governor. This input is vital in shaping potential future laws and will bolster advocacy efforts of the commission. They're planning a conference on advocacy, legislative process, and rights concerning the Deaf Community in December 2024. "Join the Deaf Commission’s efforts to unite, empower, and magnify the Deaf and Hard of Hearing message for legislative change in Nevada," said Obioma Officer, the commission’s executive director.
Before diving into the town hall discussions, each meeting will begin with an hour-long session by Communication Access Services to present services available to the community members and upcoming funding opportunities. "The Communication Access Services program is excited for the opportunity to connect with the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community and share the services that CAS provides, along with upcoming funding opportunities that could have a significant impact," Jennifer Montoya, the program manager at Communication Access Services, as reported by The Official State of Nevada.
Town hall meetings will commence in Elko on October 1, followed by Reno on October 3, and wrap up in Las Vegas on October 22. Venues include Nevada Early Intervention Services in Elko, the Joe Crowley Student Union at the University of Nevada, Reno, and the College of Southern Nevada West Charleston Campus in Las Vegas. Those unable to be present at the town halls can send their comments via email or postal mail. More details and contact information are accessible on the Nevada Commission for Persons Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing web page.
