HB 1453 Summary

• Creates the Oklahoma Licensed Interpreter Act to regulate professional interpreters for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in Oklahoma through licensure and disciplinary oversight.

• Establishes the Oklahoma Board of Licensed Interpreters for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing with seven members including deaf/hard-of-hearing individuals, certified interpreters, educators, and a lay member with appointment by the Governor.

• Sets requirements for licensure including national certification, Quality Assurance Screening Test (QAST) levels, or 1,500 hours of active practice experience, along with provisions for provisional permits and reinstatement.

• Authorizes the Board to impose disciplinary sanctions including license revocation, suspension, probation, administrative penalties up to $5,000 per day, and citations for unprofessional conduct and violations.

• Creates the Oklahoma Licensed Interpreters for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Fund supported by licensure fees and other revenues to cover Board operations and investigative costs.