Bill > S198

This bill establishes the licensure of interpreters and oral transliterators for the deaf in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. The bill defines important terms, including "Deaf person", "Interpreting", "Interpreter", and "Oral Transliterator". 2. It requires all persons or entities providing interpreting or oral transliterating services for monetary compensation within the Commonwealth to be licensed by the Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (MCDHH). 3. MCDHH is empowered to collect reasonable licensure fees to oversee and maintain the statewide licensure system. 4. It prohibits unlicensed individuals from providing interpreting or oral transliterating services for monetary compensation, and prohibits public or private entities from hiring unlicensed individuals to provide such services. 5. It provides a right of action for deaf persons denied a licensed interpreter or oral transliterator, and allows for damages and attorney's fees. 6. The bill exempts certain individuals, such as interpreting students or volunteers, from the licensing requirements. 7. It outlines a process for interpreters or oral transliterators licensed in other states to obtain a Massachusetts license at no cost, provided they meet certain credential requirements. 8. MCDHH is required to establish a formal grievance procedure regarding individual interpreter or oral transliterator conduct, with input and approval from key stakeholder groups. 9. MCDHH is also tasked with consulting with court and legal interpreters to create administrative regulations outlining situations that qualify as out-of-court legal interpreting assignments.

Labor and Employment

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S198