New Rules Toughen Michigan Sign Language Standards

LANSING, Mich. — Professional interpreters and recent graduates of sign language programs have criticized new rules taking effect in Michigan requiring more stringent education and testing requirements for sign language interpreters.

The 2007 law was prompted by miscommunication in legal and medical settings and is intended to prevent interpreter mistakes, The Detroit News reported.

Some longtime professional interpreters and graduates of college-level sign language programs described the new state licensing test is difficult. They also said it is too focused on certain English language concepts not used in everyday interpreting with deaf people.

“I feel the state’s requiring me to get a college education for something that comes naturally to me,” said Robina Anderson, an interpreter from Trenton and the daughter of two deaf parents.

Anderson has used sign language for 55 years but has twice failed a new state exam that places a heavy emphasis on antonyms, synonyms and reading comprehension. Her state certification will become invalid this year under a licensing requirement set to go into effect in June.

Sheryl Emery, director of the state Division on Deaf and Hard of Hearing, led implementation of the rules. Emery, who is deaf, said state classifications will make it easier for government institutions and medical providers to know they’re getting a qualified interpreter.

Emery said not everyone who knows sign language is cut out to be an interpreter.