LOS ANGELES, CA – Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance led by Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell requiring closed captioning to be turned on for caption-capable televisions in public spaces in unincorporated Los Angeles County beginning January 1, 2027.

“A simple step like turning on closed captions goes a long way in expanding access to information for everyone. It’s a small switch that can make a big difference for our Deaf and hard-of-hearing neighbors, English learners, neurodivergent residents, and any person who could use a little extra support with taking in what’s on the screen. LA County is helping our small businesses and community partners in our unincorporated communities get ready now for the January 1, 2027, start date. Join us in making our public spaces more welcoming and inclusive for everyone,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.

Closed captions have been available on televisions sold in the United States since 1993. With more than 800,000 people in LA County experiencing some level of hearing loss, closed captioning is an important accessibility tool. Research has also shown that captions can improve comprehension, attention, and memory for viewers of all ages and abilities. Since nearly all televisions already have built-in closed captioning, activating the feature does not require purchasing new equipment.

The ordinance does not include penalties for noncompliance. To help small businesses and public spaces – including restaurants and bars, gyms and fitness centers, waiting rooms and reception areas, medical offices and clinics, community centers and senior centers, and government buildings open to the public – prepare for the ordinance, the County’s Department of Aging and Disabilities, in partnership with the Department of Economic Opportunity, is launching a “Turn On Captions” public awareness and outreach campaign.

“This ordinance is an important step toward making public spaces more accessible for people who are D/deaf and hard of hearing,” said Maral V. Karaccusian, Director of the Aging & Disabilities Department. “We are grateful to Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell for spearheading this effort and to the Board of Supervisors for approving this important measure. I also recognize Commissioner Michael Agyin and the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities (LACCOD) for bringing this issue forward and helping the County address a barrier that impacts people’s everyday experiences in public spaces. We look forward to continuing this work with our county partners and the community as the ordinance takes effect.”

To learn more about the Turn On Captions campaign, visit ad.lacounty.gov/turn-on-captions

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