FIRST REGULAR SESSION
92ND GENERAL ASSEMBLY
INTRODUCED BY REPRESENTATIVES STEVENSON, BEAN AND SMITH (14) (Co-sponsors).
Read 1st time January 28, 2003, and copies ordered printed.
STEPHEN S. DAVIS, Chief Clerk
AN ACT
To amend chapter 170, RSMo, by adding thereto one new section relating to academic credits for American Sign Language courses offered in educational institutions.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the state of Missouri, as follows:
Section A. Chapter 170, RSMo, is amended by adding thereto one new section, to be known as section 170.019, to read as follows:
170.019. 1. If American Sign Language (ASL) is offered by any educational institution in this state, it shall be regarded as a foreign language for purposes of receiving and granting academic credits.
2. Students enrolled in an educational institution in this state that offers American Sign Language courses shall receive academic credit for such courses if such school gives academic credit for courses in foreign language. Such academic credit may be earned by:
(1) Completing a course in American Sign Language with a passing grade; or
(2) Demonstrating proficiency in American Sign Language at a level of competence equal to that taught in American Sign Language courses.
3. Academic credit received pursuant to subsection 2 of this section shall be counted toward satisfaction of any foreign language requirements of the educational institution.
4. The Missouri commission for the deaf shall provide assistance, advice, and guidance on the development, establishment, and teaching of American Sign Language courses in educational institutions in this state when needed and requested.