ODHH: Federal and State Interpreter Laws

Federal Laws

The Americans with Disabilities Act, (also known as ADA and Public Law 101-336), prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. This includes employment, transportation, public accommodation, communications, and activities of state and local government.

Public Law 101-336 - 28 C.F.R. 36.301 (c) - Definition of a "qualified interpreter". Qualified interpreter means an interpreter "who is able to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially both receptively and expressively, using any necessary specialized vocabulary."

Public Law 101-336, Title III - Extra charges may not be imposed on individuals with disabilities to cover the costs of measures necessary to ensure nondiscriminatory treatment, such as removing barriers or providing qualified interpreters.

Public Law 101-336, 28 C.F.R. 36.104 - Using family members as interpreters. "In certain circumstances, notwithstanding that the family member or friend is able to interpret or is a certified interpreter, the family or friend may not be qualified to render the necessary interpretation because of factors such as emotional or personal involvement or considerations of confidentiality that may adversely affect the ability to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially."

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, also known as Public Law 93-112, prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all programs and activities of the federal government, including employment, services, and education.

State Laws

Statute 46.295 - Interpreters for Hearing Impaired

Wisconsin Act 360 - Interpreter Licensure