This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 16B-3-22, to the Code of West Virginia, aimed at enhancing communication assistance for patients who are deaf or hard of hearing in hospitals and similar healthcare facilities. It mandates that these facilities ensure effective communication by providing accessible services, which include American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, assistive listening devices, and accessible medical documents. Additionally, hospitals are required to install visual alarm systems and provide alternative communication technologies when ASL interpreters are unavailable.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that any ASL interpreter employed by these facilities must be approved by the West Virginia Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. It also establishes that noncompliance with these requirements will be reportable to licensing authorities, ensuring accountability. The provisions of this bill align with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and are set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16B-3-22