Bill > H2723

This bill proposes to require American Sign Language (ASL) training for various public safety and emergency medical personnel in Massachusetts. Specifically, the legislation mandates that fire service personnel, police officers, and ambulance service providers complete courses that provide a basic understanding of ASL. The bill amends several existing law sections to include these requirements, ensuring that personnel in these critical services can communicate effectively with deaf and hard of hearing individuals during emergencies. Additionally, the bill requires the department of public health to designate certain ASL courses as eligible for continuing education credits for ambulance service professionals. By implementing these training requirements, the bill aims to improve communication and accessibility for deaf and hard of hearing individuals when interacting with first responders and emergency medical personnel, potentially enhancing public safety and ensuring more inclusive emergency services.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2723