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Bill

SB 645

State Board of Sign Language Interpreters - Membership and Licensing

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Nancy King

Maryland establishes licensing board for sign language interpreters to standardize credentials, qualifications, and professional conduct in the interpreting profession.

Approved by the Governor - Chapter 196
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Bill Summary · SB 645

Legislative bill overview

SB 645 establishes a State Board of Sign Language Interpreters in Maryland with authority to license and regulate sign language interpreters through credentialing standards and professional conduct requirements. The bill creates a formal regulatory framework for what has likely been an unregulated profession, setting educational qualifications, examination procedures, and disciplinary mechanisms.

Why is this important

Sign language interpreters serve as critical communication bridges for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in legal, medical, educational, and government settings. Without licensure standards, there are no consistent quality assurances, meaning deaf individuals could receive services from unqualified interpreters, potentially leading to miscommunications with serious consequences in high-stakes environments like courtrooms or hospitals. Professionalization through licensing protects vulnerable populations while legitimizing interpreters as skilled professionals.

Potential points of contention

  • Burden on existing interpreters: Current practicing interpreters may face grandfathering complications or costly re-certification requirements, potentially creating barriers for qualified professionals already in the field
  • Cost and accessibility: Licensing fees and examination costs could increase service expenses, potentially making interpretation services less affordable for low-income deaf individuals who rely on them
  • Board composition and deaf representation: Questions about whether deaf individuals and sign language users have adequate representation on the regulatory board to ensure their needs shape licensing standards

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

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