Committee sends expanded registration for video remote sign‑language interpreting to the floor

The House Health & Welfare Committee voted to send House Bill 311 to the House floor with a due‑pass recommendation. Representative Josh Wheeler, sponsor, said the bill expands regulatory recognition for video remote interpretation services so deaf and hard‑of‑hearing Idahoans can gain access to a larger pool of qualified American Sign Language interpreters for remote needs.

Wheeler said the measure is a form of targeted deregulation in the Speech and Hearing Services Practice Act that allows registered businesses to maintain rosters of interpreters who meet board licensure qualifications; those businesses would be licensed to operate and supply video remote interpreters without altering licensure standards for individual interpreters. Wheeler described the bill as budget neutral and said it balances access and professional standards.

Representative Levitt asked whether the bill would apply to educational settings; Wheeler said yes, registered entities could serve education providers. Representative Levitt and others noted the potential to reduce cost and increase availability in schools and other institutions that need specialized interpreters for rarer languages or needs.

Committee action: On a voice vote the chair recorded aye and the motion passed; House Bill 311 will go to the House floor with a due‑pass recommendation.

Next steps: The bill advances to the House floor. Implementation would be through the relevant state licensing board and would not require additional state funds per testimony.

Limitations: The transcript did not include a fiscal note; sponsors said there was no fiscal impact.