MN HF170

Adds certified deaf interpreter certification issued by RID as an alternative qualification pathway for school district interpreters, in addition to existing RID, NAD, or state certifications.

Extends provisional certificate eligibility to certified deaf interpreters who hold RID certification, granting them a two-year provisional period to develop an education plan with a mentor.

Requires provisional certificate mentors to have NAD level IV or V certification or RID certified interpreter and transliterator certifications plus at least three years of educational interpreting/transliterating experience.

Allows one-time limited extension of provisional certificates based on documented support letters, education records, and explanation of need, reviewed by a committee including deaf and hard-of-hearing specialists.

Designates interpreters meeting certification requirements as "essential personnel" under Minnesota Statutes section 125A.76.