Hawaii Senate Bill SB537

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/21
• Refer: 1/27/21
• Report Pass: 2/18/21
• Refer: 2/18/21
• Report Pass: 3/4/21
• Engrossed: 3/5/21
• Refer: 3/9/21
• Report Pass: 3/19/21
• Refer: 3/19/21

Caption

Relating To American Sign Language.

Impact

The bill amends Chapter 1 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, adding a new section to officially acknowledge ASL's status as a distinct language. This change is significant as it reinforces the legitimacy of ASL in educational systems and public discourse, which could lead to increased resources for ASL education and advocacy within Hawaii. By formalizing ASL's status, the law aims to foster a greater understanding and respect for the language, potentially improving communication and inclusivity for the deaf and hard of hearing communities in the state.

Summary

SB537, relating to American Sign Language (ASL), aims to recognize ASL as a fully developed, autonomous language with its own grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and cultural heritage. This follows in the footsteps of at least a dozen states that have enacted similar laws. The bill acknowledges the importance of ASL not only as a mode of communication but as a vital aspect of cultural identity for the deaf community. This recognition marks an important step toward enhancing the visibility and appreciation of ASL within educational and legislative contexts.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward in its aim to recognize ASL, it may raise discussions around resource allocation for ASL education, including funding for ASL instruction in schools and the training of educators. Some stakeholders might argue that while recognition is crucial, it must be accompanied by tangible support measures to ensure effective implementation. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the bill's implications for state education policies, particularly concerning the requirements for teaching foreign languages in schools, highlighting the need for clarity and further legislative action following the bill's passage.