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New requirements take effect today for business and organizations that hire sign language interpreters in Michigan, creating different levels of qualifications for specific types of communication.
The changes specify interpreters with certain skill sets for different types of communications in schools, hospitals, courts, and other offices.
The changes also are meant to make it easier to file complaints and get them investigated.
Organizations who hire interpreters “may no longer meet the qualifications required to work in that setting,” said Leslee Fritz, deputy director of the department. “So what you’ve always done prior to today may no longer be allowed under these rules.”
The highest level requirement, is for communication that may be complex and the consequences of miscommunication could be life altering, including in legal communication and forensic psychiatric evaluations.
Lower level requirements apply to interpreters for workshops, meetings, job training and political events. Interpreters are ranked through a standardized test.