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Bill

H 520

An Act relative to the training, assessment, and assignment of qualified school interpreters in educational settings

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Badger and 21 co-sponsors

Bill establishes minimum training, assessment, and assignment standards for school interpreters serving deaf and hard-of-hearing students in Massachusetts public schools.

Hearing scheduled for 12/02/2025 from 01:00 PM-02:00 PM in A-2
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Bill Summary · H 520

Legislative bill overview

H 520 establishes new standards for training, assessment, and assignment of qualified school interpreters in Massachusetts educational settings. The bill creates requirements for interpreter qualifications, professional development, and ensures proper matching of interpreters to student needs in public schools.

Why is this important

Deaf and hard-of-hearing students depend on qualified interpreters for equal access to education. Current inconsistent standards across districts can result in inadequate interpretation services, directly affecting academic performance and classroom participation. Standardizing these requirements improves educational equity and communication access for vulnerable student populations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation: School districts may face budget pressures hiring and training interpreters to meet new qualification standards, potentially requiring state funding support
  • Interpreter workforce availability: Massachusetts may lack sufficient qualified interpreters meeting enhanced standards, creating hiring challenges and potential service gaps during implementation
  • Assessment methodology: Disagreement may arise over which assessment tools best measure interpreter competency and cultural/linguistic appropriateness for different student needs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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