MS HB175

Requires juvenile detention centers to adopt and annually review policies providing language and sign language interpretation services for youth with limited English proficiency or who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Mandates interpreters be available 24 hours a day (either on-premises or by telephone) and requires centers to post notices advertising interpretation services in admitting areas and facility entrances.

Defines qualified interpreters as those certified by the National Association of the Deaf, Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, or holding valid Mississippi Office on Deaf and Hard of Hearing approval; requires adherence to professional Code of Ethics.

Requires centers to notify employees about available language services, maintain lists of qualified interpreters, translate key admission forms and documents, and develop community liaison groups to ensure service adequacy.

Establishes state funding for interpretation services through a single statewide contract to be selected and regulated by the Public Procurement Review Board; effective July 1, 2020.