However, there is still an issue on whether we should promote the states to license the interpreters. The national Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf has developed a legislation model. In addition to the RID's model legislation shown in its website, the NAD recommends the states to also consider some criteria developed by Lisa Parker with agreement from the NAD and NAD's Law Center. This will minimize a sudden shortage of interpreters after the effective date of the law. English-based communication modes such as cued speech, Pidgin Sign English, and Sign English need to be recognized and included for the certification requirements.
Privileged communication is critical for both deaf and hard of hearing consumers and interpreters.
For privileged communication, confidentiality of conversation and criminal penalty should be clearly defined. Lisa Parker of Georgia did her internship at the office of the National Association of the Deaf from September 1999 to April 2000. She graduated from Gallaudet University with a master degree in social work in this past May and a bachelor degree in psychology in 1996. She has a special interest in mental health and social policy that affects the deaf and hard of hearing population. She is currently starting a new job as a clinical therapist at Mt. Sinai Hospital, Psychiatric and Behavioral Health service for deaf and hard of hearing in Chicago, Illinois.