North Carolina lawmakers will consider a bill this week that would allow the deaf to sit on juries and guarantee an interpreter for them, though lawyers or judges could still reject deaf jurors just because they have a hearing loss.
Here are some of the comments of state representatives quoted in local papers on the topic:
"This is one example of taking political correctness too far. We can't have quadriplegics running track, nor do we need to have deaf persons serving on juries." - Pembroke Democrat Ronnie Sutton
"A hearing impaired juror who has the capacity to participate fairly and impartially ought to be allowed.” - Fayetteville Democrat Rick Glazier
"There may be plenty of people who can hear but don't listen.” - Raleigh Democrat Deborah Ross
