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BAM 105 16 of 20 RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES BPB 2026-016 7-1-2026

BRIDGES ADMINISTRATIVE MANUAL STATE OF MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

of coercion or control over the client by the individual providing interpretation. Minor children should never be used as interpreters. If the client does not identify their own interpreter, select one of the options, in the following order of preference as available, and inform the client of the selection: • MDHHS staff person. Note: Clients cannot decline the use of such an interpreter if they do not select their own. • Face-to-face community agency staff or other volunteer. • Telephone interpreter services should be used as a last resort when face-to-face interpretation is not available, or for an infrequently encountered language. Competency of Interpreters Certification of interpreters is not required; however, competency requires demonstrated proficiency in both English and the other language, fundamental knowledge in both languages of any specialized terms, or concepts unique to the program or activity being interpreted, sensitivity to the LEP person's culture, and a demonstrated ability to convey information in both languages accurately. Training in ethics of interpretation is preferred, but interpreters should at least demonstrate an understanding of the ethics of interpreting and confidentiality responsibilities. Note: These competency expectations apply to all potential interpreters, including MDHHS staff members who are utilized as interpreters. Payment for Interpreters If a MDHHS staff person is not available to interpret and the client declines the use of a volunteer, select one of the following: • Contractual provider of interpreter services. • Interpreter hired on an as-needed basis.