Sec. 40.5. (a) For purposes of this section, "accessible electronic information service" means a service that provides to an eligible individual news and other timely information, including newspapers, from a multistate service center, using high speed computers and telecommunications technology for Internet acquisition of content and rapid distribution in a form appropriate for use by an eligible individual.

(b) For purposes of this section, "director" refers to the director of the Indiana talking books and braille division of the Indiana state library.

(c) For purposes of this section, "eligible individual" means an individual who is blind or has a disability and qualifies for services under 36 CFR 701.10(b).

(d) For purposes of this section, "qualified entity" means an agency, instrumentality, or political subdivision of the state or a nonprofit organization that:

(1) using computer technology, produces audio or braille editions of daily news reports, including newspapers, for the purpose of providing eligible individuals with access to news;

(2) obtains electronic news text through direct transfer arrangements made with participating news organizations; and

(3) provides a means of program administration and reader registration on the Internet.

(e) The director may enter into an agreement with a qualified entity to provide an accessible electronic information service for eligible individuals. This service shall be planned for continuation from year to year and make maximum use of federal and other funds available by:

(1) obtaining grants or in kind support from appropriate programs; and

(2) securing access to low cost interstate rates for telecommunications by reimbursement or otherwise.

(f) The accessible electronic information service fund is established for purposes of this section. The fund consists of appropriations from the general assembly, loan proceeds, and gifts and grants to the fund.

(g) The treasurer of state shall invest the money in the accessible electronic information service fund not currently needed to meet the obligations of the fund in the same manner as other public funds may be invested.

(h) The money in the accessible electronic information service fund at the end of a state fiscal year does not revert to the state general fund but remains in the fund to be used exclusively for purposes of this section.

As added by P.L.136-2005, SEC.1. Amended by P.L.27-2006, SEC.1; P.L.99-2007, SEC.10.