Communication access is an accommodation that is mandated by the American's with Disabilities Act. (ADA). However, as with all ADA accommodations, it must be requested. Churches are exempt from providing accommodations, but worship centers, for the most part, have been way ahead of the game in providing this for their congregants.

There are 3 technologies that can be connected to a public address system. Infrared (IR), FM, and induction loop (hearing loop). They all must be connected to the venue's PA system via a transmitter. FM and IR require individual receivers. A hearing loop can be used with a receiver, but can be accessed by simply activating the telecoil setting on a hearing instrument when in a room where a loop is installed. No receiver is required with a loop system unless one's hearing instrument does not have a telecoil. Personal 'neck loops' can be plugged in to IR and FM receivers to allow the use of telecoils.

Most people who use this equipment prefer having an installed hearing loop so they don't have to bother with receivers. Good for the facility too because they don't have to maintain them and keep the batteries charged.

Several states that have active HLAA chapters and members have been successful in educating about this technology. Hearing healthcare providers should be telling their clientele about it and how it works. Some do, some don't.

Check out: http://www.loopwisconsin.com There are links on the site that share information about how the technology works, and how to install it. Also a full list of venues that have it. Information can also be found at: http://www.hearingloop.com

Further info about the other technologies is available at http://www.williamsav.com

I encourage you to explore this with your church. If no one has asked for accommodations they may not have provided them.

Let us know what you find out.