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 Advisory Board for Interpreters for the Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing, which will operate under the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification (OPLC). The bill introduces new legal language that defines the advisory board and the OPLC, while deleting references to the previous administrative framework. Key amendments include the redefinition of the board's role, the establishment of new powers such as maintaining a directory of licensed interpreters, and the authority to accept federal funds. The bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework for interpreter services and improve accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments.

Additionally, the bill outlines the licensure process for interpreters, specifying that all applications must be submitted to the OPLC and detailing the requirements for licensure, including age and application fees. It also provides exemptions for certain interpreters and establishes a revolving fund for examination fees. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and while it does not allocate new funding, it anticipates the need for two new positions within the OPLC. The fiscal impact remains uncertain, as the Department of Education believes the existing financial model will remain self-sufficient, while the OPLC has concerns about potential increases in costs related to the new structure. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline services for the deaf and hard of hearing community while addressing the complexities of its financial implications.

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