June 05, 2026 Louisiana Department of Health establishes minimum qualification standards for Louisiana sign language interpretersRequirements provide clarity for interpreters and individuals receiving services

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jun 05, 2026 - The Louisiana Department of Health, through the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf, recently released new statewide standards establishing minimum qualification, training, and registration requirements for sign language interpreters. Interpreters and service providers have until Jan. 1, 2027, to comply with the new requirements.

Created in response to Act 128 of the 2022 Regular Legislative Session, these new standards outline the education, skill level, and training required for professional sign language interpreters to work in Louisiana. These requirements apply to entities legally required to provide a sign language interpreter, such as health care providers, school districts, businesses, and courtrooms.

These regulations are designed to ensure individuals who are Deaf, DeafBlind, and hard of hearing and who use sign language have access to the information and services they deserve. The new requirements went into effect upon publication on May 20, 2026.

“In Louisiana, public and private service providers have always been required to secure qualified sign language interpreters, but until now, there has never been a clear statewide definition of what ‘qualified’ means,” said Jana Broussard, acting executive director of the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf. “These regulations provide clarity for both providers and recipients receiving sign language interpreting services and help ensure interpreters are appropriately qualified for the setting they are working in.”

Beginning July 1, 2026, sign language interpreters may apply to join the updated online registry of interpreters who meet the state’s new qualification and training standards. Registration will be required to provide sign language interpreting services in Louisiana.

The Louisiana Commission for the Deaf also offers resources and professional development opportunities to help interpreters meet the new qualifications. The Commission’s Interpreter Mentorship Program offers one-on-one coaching, study groups, job shadowing opportunities, internships, and continuing education units.

To learn more about the Louisiana Commission for the Deaf and the new qualification standards, visit lcd.la.gov or email LCD@la.gov.