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HB 1040

Boards and Commissions - As introduced, creates the Tennessee board of sign language interpreting. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 63; Title 68, Chapter 1, Part 1 and Title 71, Chapter 4, Part 21.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Renea Jones

Creates Tennessee Board of Sign Language Interpreting to regulate and certify professional interpreters, improving service standards while potentially increasing costs and limiting interpreter availability.

Rec for pass if am by s/c ref. to Health Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1040

Legislative bill overview

HB 1040 establishes a new Tennessee Board of Sign Language Interpreting to regulate and certify professional sign language interpreters in the state. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee code related to boards, commissions, and professional licensing to create the regulatory framework for this new board.

Why is this important

Sign language interpreter regulation affects accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals across healthcare, legal, educational, and governmental settings. Establishing professional standards and certification requirements can improve service quality and consistency, though it also creates barriers to entry that may impact interpreter availability in rural or underserved areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Certification requirements and costs: New licensing requirements may increase operational costs for interpreters and potentially reduce the supply of available services, particularly in rural Tennessee regions with lower demand
  • Scope of board authority: The breadth of the new board's regulatory power over interpreter qualifications, fees, and disciplinary actions could be viewed as either necessary consumer protection or excessive government regulation
  • Existing interpreter access: Establishing new barriers to practice may affect current working interpreters who lack formal certification, creating transition and grandfathering issues

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

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