Massachusetts § 194 - Commission for the deaf and hard of hearing; functions

§ 194. Commission for the deaf and hard of hearing; functions

Section 194. The commission shall serve as the principal agency of the commonwealth, on behalf of deaf and hard of hearing persons, shall advocate, provide and coordinate promulgation of public policies, regulations and programs, shall improve accessibility and quality of existing services and shall promote development of new services when necessary. In the performance of this function, the commission shall increase public awareness of deaf and hard of hearing individuals and shall provide services to the deaf and hard of hearing population including but not limited to interpreting services, telecommunication liaison services, information and referral, case management and social services, independent living services and access to telecommunication and assistive listening devices. The commission shall determine the extent and availability of services to deaf and hard of hearing individuals within the commonwealth, determine the need for further services, make recommendations to the governor and shall file a copy thereof with the state secretary.