HI HB1106

Establishes a licensing program for American Sign Language English interpreters in Hawaii, effective January 1, 2019, administered by a new Board of Sign Language Interpreters within an unspecified state department.

Requires all interpreters providing services for compensation to hold either nationally recognized certification (from Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or National Association of the Deaf) or state-recognized credentials from the Hawaii Disability and Communication Access Board.

Creates exemptions for students in formal interpreter programs, religious setting interpreters, emergency interpreters in public education and vocational rehabilitation, and public school personnel hired before July 1, 2015.

Establishes a Sign Language Interpreter Licensing Special Fund supported by $50 surcharges on new licenses and renewals, with application fees and fines deposited into the fund.

Prohibits unlicensed practice with penalties of up to $500 per violation and authorizes the Board to deny, revoke, suspend, or condition licenses for ethical violations, incompetence, impairment, or failure to maintain required credentials.