An Act To Amend The Laws Governing The Licensure Of American Sign Language Interpreters

LD 2087 amends Maine's licensure laws for American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters to clarify that the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation can determine an emergency either during or after it occurs, allowing temporary exemptions from licensure requirements. This directly affects ASL interpreters who may provide services during emergencies without holding a current license, aiming to improve access to interpreting services for Deaf and hard-of-hearing residents in crisis situations. The bill includes an emergency preamble citing the October 2023 Lewiston shooting and a state report recommending immediate action to expand access. It adds an emergency clause to take effect upon approval, bypassing the usual 90-day waiting period.