Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on People with Disabilities, announced the enactment of legislation he co-sponsored (A7442, Chapter 231 of 2025) requiring publishers and manufacturers of printed instructional materials to make accessible versions available for college students with disabilities.

 “As both the Chair of the Committee on People with Disabilities and the father of a son with autism, I know firsthand how critical access and inclusion are when it comes to education,” said Santabarbara. “I was proud to help get this bill passed to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to the materials they need to succeed in higher education.”

 The new law ensures key requirements that publishers and textbook manufacturers must provide instructional materials in electronic formats accessible to students with visual, learning, or other disabilities. These provisions help institutions better support students who rely on alternative formats such as audio, large print, or screen reader – compatible digital files.

 “This is more than a technical requirement – it’s about equity,” Santabarbara said. “No student should be left behind or made to feel like their education is an afterthought because they access information differently.”

 With the growing use of digital textbooks and learning platforms, the law ensures that accessibility standards keep pace with technology and remain enforceable across New York’s college campuses.

 Santabarbara has long championed policies that break down barriers for people with disabilities in education, employment, housing, and healthcare. “This law reaffirms our commitment to inclusive education,” he added. “It’s another step forward toward building a state where all students – regardless of ability – have the tools and support they need to reach their full potential.”