The bill, HB 525-FN, proposes a significant restructuring of the program for the deaf and hard of hearing by transferring its administration from the Department of Education's vocational rehabilitation division to the newly established Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC). This transition includes the creation of an advisory board specifically for interpreters for the deaf, deafblind, and hard of hearing, which will consist of licensed interpreters and consumers from the deaf community. The bill introduces new legal language that defines the OPLC and outlines the board's responsibilities, including reviewing licensure applications, enforcing performance standards, and maintaining a directory of licensed interpreters. It also deletes references to the previous administrative structure under the Department of Education.

Additionally, the bill mandates that all interpreters must be licensed to receive payment or represent themselves as interpreters after January 1, 2003, with certain exemptions. It establishes requirements for licensure, such as age and application fees, and sets penalties for practicing without a license. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and repeals previous statutes related to the program. While the fiscal impact remains indeterminable due to uncertainties surrounding the transition's effect on costs, the OPLC anticipates needing additional staff to support the new advisory board, which could lead to increased expenditures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 310:2, 326-I:2, 6:12, 200-C:18