SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To ensure that the deaf and hearing impaired have access to services that enable them to communicate effectively, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, passed legislation on Wednesday that would keep the Interpreter for the Deaf Licensure Act of 2007 from expiring.

“Sign language is how many people who are deaf or hearing impaired communicate with the world,” said Mussman. “And it is important that they have access to skilled interpreters as they interact with their surrounding community; with schools, government agencies, doctors, and more, especially if an emergency situation arises. The provisions in this bill have established standards for interpreters to ensure they have the appropriate qualifications to interpret for members of the deaf community in a variety of settings.”

Mussman passed House Bill 1811, which extends the sunset provision for the Interpreter for the Deaf Licensure Act of 2007. The Act is also responsible for the creation of the Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission, which grants licenses to individuals that provide interpreting services for the deaf and hearing impaired. The measure passed the Illinois House of Representatives and now moves to the Senate.

“It is very important that we preserve this high level of licensure regulation.” said Mussman. “Appropriate standards for Sign Language interpreters is critical to the quality of life and safety of members of the deaf and hearing impaired community.”

Mussman serves the 56th District, which includes portions of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Roselle, Rolling Meadows, and Palatine.