NY A03742

Creates a new Article 169 in Education Law to establish licensing requirements for sign language interpreters in New York State, effective 550 days after enactment.

Establishes a State Board for Sign Language Interpreting with at least 10 members: six deaf or hard of hearing individuals who have used interpreters' services, and four licensed sign language interpreters, serving three-year terms.

Requires sign language interpreters to obtain a professional license from the Department of Education and prohibits unlicensed individuals from practicing or using the title "sign language interpreter" for compensation.

Sets licensing fees: $105 for initial examination and license, $60 for reexamination, $90 for initial license without examination, and $130 for each five-year registration renewal period.

Authorizes the State Board to promulgate ethics codes, industry standards, testing guidelines, and regulations for both individual interpreters and sign language interpreting agencies; allows temporary exemptions (maximum two per year, up to 60 days) for out-of-state interpreters with certified credentials.