Overview of KCDHH Interpreter Registration
In pursuant of K.S.A. 75-5393(b)(6), KCDHH maintains a listing of persons qualified in various types of interpreting, as supported by K.S.A. 75-5393(b)(11), which KCDHH through its Executive Director provides for a program of regulation and certification of interpreters for the deaf, hard of hearing and speech-impaired individuals. The KCDHH administers the statewide registration of all interpreters in place of a certification system, of which either system are made available by K.S.A. 75-4355b, et seq. KCDHH previously administered the Kansas Quality Assurance Screening (KQAS), a state certification system, until September 30, 2014 after a 4-year transition. The goal of this transition is to promote interpreters to become nationally certified and/or appropriately credentialed; and the registration system has become inclusive of all interpreters.
In addition to recognized national certifications and credentials, KCDHH continues to recognize interpreters with KQAS certifications of levels 4/4 or better as long as they are in good standing with their CEU maintenance requirements and biennium registration. Interpreters with KQAS levels 3 or other unapproved credentials are allowed to obtain a provisional registration with KCDHH and are given opportunities to develop their competence through KCDHH’s supervision plan and mentoring program. As dictated by K.S.A. 75-4355b(d), no person shall serve as an interpreter unless the KCDHH makes the determination that the person is qualified to interpret. The KCDHH has also designated the Executive Director of KCDHH to make such determination and approval.
For additional information and/or to request for appropriate forms or documents, please contact KCDHH at 785-368-8034 or VP 785-246-5077.