Loading chat...

HI SB537

Bill

Status

Engrossed

3/5/2021

Primary Sponsor

Karl Rhoads

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2021 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Recognizes American Sign Language (ASL) as a fully developed, autonomous, natural language with its own distinct grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and cultural heritage

  • Adds a new section to Chapter 1 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes codifying ASL recognition as a discrete language rather than merely signed English

  • Builds on Act 152 (Session Laws of Hawaii 2016), which previously recognized ASL as a world language for public school language requirement purposes

  • Aligns Hawaii with at least a dozen other states that have enacted laws recognizing ASL as a distinct language

  • Takes effect upon approval

Legislative Description

Relating To American Sign Language.

American Sign Language

Last Action

Passed Second Reading and referred to the committee(s) on JHA with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and Representative(s) Todd excused (1).

3/19/2021

Committee Referrals

Judiciary & Hawaiian Affairs3/19/2021
Culture, Arts, & International Affairs3/9/2021
Judiciary2/18/2021
Human Services1/27/2021

Full Bill Text

No bill text available