Policy on Interpreter Services Including Sign Language and Oral Interpreter Services for Individuals Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Tactile Interpreting Services for Individuals Who are Deaf-Blind
34CFR Section 361.48 requires the Department for the Blind to develop and maintain current policies covering the nature and scope and the criteria under which each service is provided.
A. Nature and Scope
The Department will provide interpreter services that are necessary to enable an applicant or eligible individual to achieve an employment outcome.
B. Criteria
Joint planning between the individual and the counselor will be used to determine the amount of interpreter service to be provided. Consideration will be given to the following items: availability, preferred mode of communication, and cost. When possible, interpreter services will be provided by qualified personnel. Comparable services and benefits will be used to the maximum extent appropriate. Services will be provided in the most integrated setting possible consistent with the individual’s informed choice.
Revised: 08/10/01