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Accessibility,
ADA Information, &
Deaf Awareness
About the ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that enforces certain measures to prohibit discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It requires state and local governments, businesses, and nonprofits to provide effective communication for people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Often, effective communication means working with a qualified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter.
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What is Effective Communication?
The ADA requires whatever auxiliary aids and services are necessary to make sure communication is effective and equal. Examples of auxiliary aids and services for the Deaf/HH include, but are not limited to:
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Qualified sign language interpreters
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Captioning (open/closed)
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Video Relay Service (VRS)
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Assistive listening devices
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Written notes or materials
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Computer-aided transcription​
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The goal is to find an effective means of communication that is appropriate for the particular circumstance. The person or entity should carefully evaluate the situation and consider communication needs and the expected complexity of the assignment. Special circumstances or unique communication needs may warrant the use of an interpreter with specialized or higher-level certification.
Use of Interpreters
If effective communication is provided through an interpreter, it is essential to ensure that the interpreter is qualified. The ADA defines a qualified interpreter as someone who can interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively (i.e., understanding what the person with the disability is saying) and expressively (i.e., having the skill needed to convey information back to the person), using any necessary specialized vocabulary. An individual does not need to be certified to meet this standard - certification requirements should match the complexity of the situation.
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NOTE: Family members or friends who know sign language are generally not considered qualified interpreters due to concerns regarding confidentiality and impartiality.​​​
Learn More
If you are unsure what type of interpreter you need or when one is required, we can help provide more detailed information. We are glad to answer questions and connect you with the right resources.
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For additional information on communication access and ADA requirements, visit:
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ADA.gov – Effective Communication https://www.ada.gov/resources/effective-communication/
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National Association of the Deaf (NAD) https://www.nad.org/
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Texas Health & Human Services Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services https://www.hhs.texas.gov/services/disability/deaf-hard-hearing
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FCC – Video Relay Services https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/video-relay-services
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For a list of BEI certified interpreters, visit the BEI Registry. https://bei.hhsc.state.tx.us/PublicInterpreterSearch/Search
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