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Ever since the
Division of Professional Registration began licensing interpreters
in Missouri in 1999 there has been an ambiguity in the law that HB
564 will eliminate. It was always clear that an interpreter needed
to show evidence of current certification in order to initially
obtain a license to interpret from the Division of Professional
Registration. However, it was not at all clear that renewal of a
license could be denied because of failure to maintain current
certification. The wording of section 209.323(2) of HB 564 now
clarifies that ambiguity. If this bill becomes law, this revised
wording will ensure that interpreters in Missouri maintain their
skill levels through annual continuing education activities if they
want to renew their licenses.
The Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of
Hearing testified in support of this bill when it had a public
hearing before the House Professional Registration and Licensing
Committee on 3/11/03. A House Committee Substitute bill was voted
"Do Pass" on 3/13/03. All advocates who wish to see HB 564 passed
this year should now contact the chair of that committee,
Representative Robert Behnen by e-mail
rbehnen@services.state.mo.us or phone (573-751-0224 Voice) and
request that the bill now be reported out of the committee. In
addition, advocates should contact their local State Representative
and urge his or her support for the bill when it is voted on. If you
don't already know it, you can find the name of and contact
information for your local Representative by going to the Missouri
House website (www.house.state.mo.us).
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