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LCD rulemaking for sign language interpreters pending Attorney General review and legislative oversight
Summary
LCD staff reported three notices of intent for interpreter-related rules; two notices were published on Sept. 20 and the proposed minimum standards for sign language interpreters remain under review by the Attorney General's office before legislative oversight committees review.
Interim Director Broussard updated the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf (LCD) on the status of three posted notices of intent to change rules affecting sign language interpreters and the commission’s authority.
Broussard told the commission the three notices addressed (1) minimum standards for sign language interpreters, (2) repealing an outdated interpreter certification, and (3) clarifying board responsibilities related to interpreter oversight. She said the repeals and a rule replacing the old certificate were published on Sept. 20.
On the minimum standards for sign language interpreters, Broussard said the Department of Health held a public hearing in June and provided a written response on Aug. 18 that did not alter the board’s proposed standards. The next step, she said, is review by the Attorney General’s office because the document is registered under an occupational review panel that examines professional standards.
“If there’s no issues, they would also let us know. And they will let us know whether they do approve or don't approve,” Interim Director Broussard said, describing the attorney review as the current step. If the Attorney General’s office approves, Broussard said the Department of Health will then transmit the rules to a legislative oversight committee for a second review; she added that the oversight group meets monthly and is not limited to the legislative session.
Commissioner Wellens, who identified himself as a long-serving member, urged maintaining broad, inclusive language so the commission can attract a wide candidate pool for interpreter-related roles and oversight. Broussard and other commissioners said the AG review and committee oversight are standard steps that could return questions to the commission for clarification.
Ending: The commission placed the interpreter minimum-standards rule on the record as awaiting the Attorney General’s office review; staff said they will notify the board of any follow-up from the AG or the oversight committee.
