Who typically pays for interpreting services?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states that all public entities are required to provide “…auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication with deaf and hard of hearing people.” The regulation also explicitly states that auxiliary aids and services may not be financed by a surcharge on the disabled individual. The cost of providing sign language interpreters for deaf clients is part of the cost of doing business; it is similar to the cost of a ramp, elevator, disabled parking place or other physical accessibility feature, but may not be passed on to clients with disabilities. PIE can also refer you to resources (upon request) to explain how the ADA applies to your situation as you make your services available to people who are Deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing.
