Overview of State Licensing of Sign Language Interpreters
Overview
Legislation was passed (LB 87-2006, Neb. Statutes 20-150 to 20-159), which requires sign language interpreters obtain a license by June 30, 2007. With the passage of legislation licensed interpreters must be used in all state settings §20-150.7, courts and probation officials. The Nebraska Commission for the Deaf & Hard of Hearing is responsible for issuing and maintaining licenses.
History – Legislation was passed to protect the rights of deaf and hard of hearing people who cannot readily understand or communicate in a spoken language and who consequently cannot equally participate in or benefit from proceedings, programs and activities of state agencies and law enforcement personnel unless interpreters are available to assist them.
An eight-member Interpreter Review Board promulgated regulations, To establish and maintain levels of competency for sign language interpreters that work for state agencies, courts or law enforcement personnel that require sign language interpreter competencies. There are four types of licenses issued:
- Interpreter or Transliterator License
- Specialty License (Deaf Interpreters, Legal)
- Provisional License
- Limited Practice License
Obtain a Licensed Interpreter– A listing of licensed interpreters can be obtained from the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, 402-471-3593, and the After Hours Interpreter Referral List from our web page at http://www.ncdhh.ne.gov. The Commission coordinates a statewide interpreter referral service that is available to state agencies, companies and the general public. The Referral Service is centralized in Omaha, 402-595-3991 or toll free is 1-877-248-7836.
Use of Non Licensed Interpreters– The Commission may deny, refuse to renew, revoke, suspend or take disciplinary actions against a licensee. Anyone providing services without a license may be restrained by temporary or permanent injunctions. The Interpreter Review Board will investigate complaints related to the use of non licensed interpreters.
Further Information – Call the Lincoln office, 402-471-3593 or go to the Commission’s website: http://www.ncdhh.ne.gov