HB 1471 Summary

• Creates the "Mental Health for Individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing Bill of Rights Act" establishing standards of care for mental health services to deaf and hard of hearing individuals in Arkansas.

• Requires mental health professionals to provide culturally affirmative and linguistically appropriate services in the client's primary communication method, whether American Sign Language, English-based sign systems, oral/aural methods, or other communication systems.

• Establishes a "Certified Mental Health Professional" designation requiring fluency in primary communication methods, training in working with interpreters, and knowledge of deaf culture and needs.

• Mandates the Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services employ a Deaf Services Coordinator (fluent in American Sign Language with master's degree in behavioral health) to oversee statewide implementation and establish an advisory committee with at least 51% deaf or hard of hearing members.

• Requires one-on-one mental health services from certified professionals; if unavailable locally, clients must be offered referrals to telehealth services or interpreter-assisted care at no cost, with the right to decline without penalty.