SCS/HB 1783 - This act modifies various provisions relating to the deaf and hard of hearing. The name of the "Missouri Commission for the Deaf" is changed to the "Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing" throughout the statutes.

The Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Fund is created. The state Treasurer must approve all expenditures for the purchase of goods and services by the Commission (Section 161.410).

Current law prohibits the Commission from paying evaluators of the Missouri Interpreter Certification System (MICS). This act allows evaluators to be compensated for their services and reimbursed by the Commission (Section 209.292). The Board must recognize certain national interpreter certifications (Section 209.322).

Current law outlines licensure procedures for deaf and hard of hearing interpreters. This act provides that national certifications will also be recognized for licensure concurrent with the MICS (Section 209.323).

This act is substantially similar to SB 882 (2002).
ERIN MOTLEY