CO SB178

Extends the sunset date for the Colorado Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing from July 1, 2015 to September 1, 2024.

Adds definitions for "deaf-blind" and "deaf or hard of hearing" to clarify who the commission serves, including persons with varying degrees of hearing and visual acuity limitations.

Changes commission membership requirements to include one deaf-blind member instead of a general public member, and modifies the interpreter requirement to "auxiliary service provider."

Requires the commission to submit annual reports to the governor and general assembly by September 1 each year with recommendations for legislation and administrative changes, exempting these reports from standard reporting sunset provisions.

Renames the "system navigator specialist" position to "outreach consultant" and expands duties to consult with state and private entities on providing accommodations to deaf and hard of hearing individuals.