Procedure for Requesting a Sign Language Interpreter

All requests for sign language interpreters must be scheduled by contacting the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access (OEOA) or using the Interpreter Request Form found on the OEOA website.  If an assignment request is two hours or longer, OEOA may need to hire a second interpreter to work as a team.  Exceptions will be considered based on the details of the request, and OEOA reserves the right to make the final decision.

If OEOA must hire additional interpreter(s) to cover the request, the Penn State University (PSU) requesting entity is responsible for all costs/fees the interpreting agency or individual interpreters’ charges. The requesting entity must also adhere to the interpreting agencies or individual interpreter’s Terms and Conditions.

Subject To Availability:
The PSU Staff Sign Language Interpreter’s services are subject to scheduling availability. If the staff interpreter is not available, the requesting entity will be informed by email with a link to the other options available to acquire interpreting services. At that time the requester may ask the OEOA office to assist in procuring outside PSU interpreters but will remain fiscally responsible.

Cancellation Policy:
OEOA requires all assignments be canceled at least 48 business hours before the start of the assignment to avoid charges.  Notice of cancelation is given by contacting the OEOA office at aslterp@psu.edu or (814) 863-0471 during business hours (8:00 am – 5:00 pm) at least 48 business hours before the start of an assignment.

OEOA will bill out the Staff Interpreters time at $65 per hour plus any additional expense(s) incurred. You will receive an invoice from the OEOA for the use of PSU Staff Sign Language Interpreter if:

• Assignments canceled with less than 48 business hours notice.
• Assignments where an interpreter was requested, but not needed.
• Assignments when a requested interpreter arrives, but the Deaf or Hard of Hearing client does not.

**Jobs canceled by 5 pm 48 business hours before the start of the assignment will not receive an invoice.

**Assignments extending more than two days in length, which are not canceled by 5 pm 48 business hours before the assignment start date, will only be charged for two days.

Inclement Weather Policy:
OEOA will not bill if the entire office/business closes due to weather concerns; however, if the place of business is open to the public, the standard cancellation policy applies.