June 26, 2024
Media contact: Jonathan Modie, 971-246-9139, [email protected]
Health Licensing Office accepting applications for sign language interpreters seeking licensure
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Health Licensing Office (HLO) at Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is accepting applications for individuals seeking a permanent board license to perform sign language interpreting services.
The call for applications follows the Board of Sign Language Interpreters’ adoption of permanent administrative rules setting minimum licensing requirements, which became effective June 8, 2024:
Those applying for a permanent license should complete the appropriate application and follow the directions on how HLO will accept applications, identification, supporting documentation and fees. Applications can be found through the HLO website, or by clicking here.
Qualification requirements for a permanent license may be different from the qualification requirements for a temporary license. Holding a temporary license does not guarantee an individual will be granted a permanent license.
The HLO is extending the limited waiver on enforcement through Dec. 31, 2024. This means HLO is exercising its discretion to not take disciplinary action against individuals who are required to be licensed and choose to work under the limited waiver on enforcement (i.e., not obtain a permanent license). The limited waiver of enforcement is narrow – the waiver only applies to the singular issue of providing sign language interpretation services in Oregon without a license.
The HLO may impose discipline for any other violation of the HLO or Board rules or statutes. The limited waiver of enforcement ends Dec. 31, 2024. On Jan. 1, 2025, any individual not covered by an exception and providing sign language interpreting (SLI) services must have a permanent license to avoid enforcement action by the HLO.
Questions about licensing and qualification can be directed to Michael Brennan, [email protected]“>[email protected] or 503-373-1986. An article about the new rules for sign language interpreters can be found on the HLO website.