Michigan adds technology to assist deaf community at state offices

From the Detroit Free Press:

The Michigan Secretary of State’s Office is testing out technology to help deaf and hard of hearing people when they visit branch offices.

The Web-based technology uses a video camera and audio equipment to connect deaf and hearing-impaired customers to a remote person who can read and translate sign language to branch office workers.

The one-year pilot program is offered to customers for free and costs the state only $150 per month, per location.

“It makes it easier for our customers, which is what it’s really all about,” said Kelly Chesney, spokeswoman for Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land.

The program, first unveiled at the department’s Flint SuperCenter, is available in metro Detroit at branch offices at 37015 S. Gratiot in Clinton Township; Cadillac Place, 3026 W. Grand Boulevard in Detroit; 17176 Farmington Road in Livonia, and 1608 N. Perry in Pontiac.

The Secretary of State’s office contracted the service with Communication Access Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Flint, a nonprofit group that offers advocacy and services to the deaf and hard of hearing community.