BILL NUMBER:  AB 2757
  VETOED	DATE: 09/29/2000




SEP 29 2000

To the Members of the Assembly:

I am returning AB 2757 without my signature.

This measure would expand funding for telecommunications programs
aimed at providing toll-free access and operational costs for the
establishment of telephonic reading systems for individuals who are
visually impaired.

I am concerned that implementation of this program could negatively
affect funding for other important activities within the Deaf and
Disabled Telecommunications Program (DDTP).  In addition, spending
caps within the DDTP could be impacted by the implementation of a
telephonic reading system, particularly when there are no complete
estimates of the level of use anticipated for these systems.  I
believe it is premature to enact this measure without the data
sufficient to estimate the impact of t he program.

I do, however, support actions that enhance the quality of life for
blind Californians.  Last year, my budget included more than $70,000
for recreational therapists, $200,000 for three additional teachers
and provided $200,000 for Braille transcription at the California
Special School for the Blind.  I also signed a bill last year that
allowed for publishers of instructional materials to provide software
for transcription into Braille.

I would be open to a bill next year that would allow the Public
Utilities Commission (PUC) to determine, after appropriate review,
how the blind could be further accommodated by this fund.

Sincerely,





GRAY DAVIS