A. The board shall issue a license as a community signed language interpreter to a person who:

(1) files a completed application that is accompanied by the required fees; and

(2) submits satisfactory evidence that the person:

(a) has reached the age of majority;

(b) is of good moral character;

(c) has completed all educational requirements established by the board; and

(d) holds certification under a nationally recognized signed language interpreters organization or by an equivalent organization as defined by rule of the board.

B. The board shall issue a license as an educational signed language interpreter to a person who:

(1) files a completed application that is accompanied by the required fees; and

(2) submits satisfactory evidence that the person:

(a) has reached the age of majority;

(b) is of good moral character;

(c) has completed all educational requirements established by the board; and

(d) provides evidence of passing a skill assessment exam as established by rule.

C. The board shall issue a one-time, five-year provisional license to a person not meeting the community signed language interpreter or educational signed language interpreter requirements for licensure as a signed language interpreter pursuant to the Signed Language Interpreting Practices Act [Chapter 61, Article 34 NMSA 1978] if the person:

(1) has completed an interpreter education program or interpreter preparation program; or

(2) is employed as a community signed language interpreter or an educational signed language interpreter at the time that act becomes effective.

History: Laws 2007, ch. 248, § 9.

Effective dates. — Laws 2007, ch. 248 contained no effective date provision, but, pursuant to N.M. Const., art. IV, § 23, was effective June 15, 2007, 90 days after the adjournment of the legislature.