The Vermont Statutes Online
The Statutes below include the actions of the 2025 session of the General Assembly.
NOTE: The Vermont Statutes Online is an unofficial copy of the Vermont Statutes Annotated that is provided as a convenience.
(Cite as: 33 V.S.A. § 1601)
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§ 1601. Definitions
As used in this chapter:
(1) “Communication or language mode” means verbal or nonverbal communication that includes
listening, speaking, American Sign Language (ASL), Signed English, Signed Support,
reading, and writing in all domains of a language. Reference to the communication
mode of individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind distinguishes between
modality and language. Systems that assist individuals using a particular modality
or language include ASL, spoken English, Signed English, sign-supported speech, speech
or lip reading, cued speech, and assistive technology.
(2) “Deaf” means having a severe or complete absence of auditory sensitivity that impairs
processing of linguistic information through hearing, with or without amplification
or cochlear implants. Participation in Deaf Community culture and use of ASL are characteristic
of persons who identify as Deaf.
(3) “DeafBlind” means having concomitant hearing and visual impairments.
(4) “Department” means the Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living.
(5) “Hard of Hearing” means a reduced level of functional hearing and reliance on residual
hearing and technology, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, FM listening systems,
and other types of assistive listening devices to communicate via verbal language,
with or without use of ASL. (Added 2015, No. 107 (Adj. Sess.), § 1, eff. May 12, 2016.)