Sign Language Consumer Protection Study

Deleted the requirement to collect data on whether unregulated sign language interpretation harms public health or safety.

Removed the mandate to survey consumers with experience in both certified and uncertified sign language interpretation services.

Updated the document header to reflect 'Rerevised' status and added a '3rd Reading Unamended' stamp with a date of May 4, 2026.

Added new names to the Senate sponsorship list, expanding the list of co-sponsors.

Changed the contracting authority from the 'Executive Director' to the 'Board' to broaden oversight and responsibility.

Changed the requirement to 'coordinate with any third-party researcher' from a specific contractor to a general category, increasing flexibility in study execution.

Changed the obligation to enter into a contract from mandatory ('shall') to permissive ('may'), allowing the Board discretion on whether to hire a researcher.

Deleted the requirement that the study must review regulation in at least one other state with specific characteristics (long-standing, recently enacted, or recently modified regulations).

Added new legislative sponsors to the bill sponsorship list.

Updated the document header from 'ENGROSSED' to 'REENGROSSED' and added a '3rd Reading Unamended' date stamp.

Added a requirement to interview language service companies as part of the study.

Added a requirement to interview consumers who have experience with both certified and uncertified in-person and remote video services.

Added specific demographic requirements for interviewees, including late-deafened individuals, rural residents, and diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Changed the data collection requirement to include both qualitative and quantitative data regarding public health, safety, and welfare.