Sign Language Interpretation Requests

It is important that you include instructions regarding reasonable accommodation requests in your notices.

Below is our suggested language:

For accommodation requests, including spoken language or sign language interpretation, please inform the [Committee] office of the need as soon as possible but no later than five (5) business days before the proceeding. The Council, in conjunction with the Mayor's Office of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing, will make every effort to fulfill timely requests, however requests received in less than five (5) business days may not be fulfilled and alternatives may be offered.

It is the committees’/office’s responsibility to get to the Mayor's Office of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing ("MODDHH") any requests for interpretation immediately. I’ve highlighted the procedure below:

Procedure for requesting services for hearings and roundtables

• At least five (5) business days' notice is required.

• Requests must be made via the form found here: https://odr.dc.gov/service/sign-language-services

• Interpreters and/or CART are generally not available on an emergency or short-notice basis. However, if a request is made with less than five (5) business days' notice, MODDHH will make best efforts to work with the Council office to fulfill the request. MODDHH will confirm ability or inability to provides service within one (1) business day of the request.

• If Council staff cancels a request for an interpreter and/or CART with less than three (3) business days' notice, the Council shall be responsible for the full cost charged by the contract vendor for the cancellation.

• All requests for services outside of the Wilson Building or after hours must be cleared through the Office of the Secretary, in conjunction with the Office of General Counsel.

• Public funds cannot be used for services or events not directly related to legislative duties.