You can read the text of the new law here:
http://legislature.maine.gov/bills/getPDF.asp?paper=HP1246&item=3&snum=129
You can apply for an interpreting license here: https://www1.maine.gov/cgi-bin/online/licensing/begin.pl?board_number=4073 –Limited licenses will no longer be issued. Renew and pay on time, acquire continuing education as required, and your limited license will still be good.
New Conditional License requirements: §1524-C. Requirements for licensure; conditional interpreter and conditional deaf interpreter No more than one conditional license may be issued to a person who has completed the education requirements of this chapter. A conditional license may be held no more than 4 years, except that a 5th year may be granted by the director upon demonstration of extreme hardship.
- To be eligible for licensure as a conditional interpreter or conditional deaf interpreter under this chapter, an applicant must be at least 18 years of age and must provide the following:
- 1. Proof of proficiency in American Sign Language. Documented proof of a score of 3.5 or higher on an American Sign Language proficiency interview; and
- 2. Proof of education and training in the interpreting process. Documented proof of the following:
- A. An associate degree or higher in American Sign Language, American Sign Language interpreting or deaf studies from an accredited college or university;
- B. For persons holding a limited license that is current on the effective date of this section, an alternative pathway approved by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf, Inc. or a comparable or successor organization recognized by the director;
- C. A passing score on a national interpreter certification knowledge exam;
- or D. A passing score on a certified deaf interpreter knowledge exam administered by an organization that assesses language interpretation recognized by the director.