GOVERNMENT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Office of Disability Rights Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) Services
Q. What is Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)?
A. VRI is the use of a computer, webcam and a high speed Internet broadband connection to access a qualified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter online.
Q. When should a District Agency use VRI Services?
A. In situations where District agencies have a need for short communications between deaf and hearing individuals, but an in-person sign language interpreter (SLI) is not available. VRI is perfect for last minute or emergency situations at District Agencies, such as walk-ins, interviews, or short meetings.
Q. Where would a District Agency get VRI Services?
A. The Office of Disability Rights (ODR) is able to provide Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) services at its VRI Center, located at ODR’s location, Suite 729N, Judiciary Square.
Q. When are ODR’s VRI Services available?
A. ODR’s VRI services are available during regular business hours for walk-ins, short meetings, interviews, discussions, lasting up to one (1) hour.
Q. Who can benefit from ODR’s VRI Services?
A. ODR’s VRI services are available on a first-come first-served basis for walk-ins who are dealing with DC Agencies located at Judiciary Square, if not arranged in advance. ODR’s VRI services are not provided for events lasting over an hour or with more than five (5) participants. VRI services are not provided to DC Government Employees or Agency contract vendors or consultants. Please review our VRI Services Request Process, and share with all staff who work with the public.
Q. How can a District Agency secure ODR’s VRI Services?
A. VRI Services can be arranged in advance or requested on-demand by contacting ODR at 202-724-5055 or Haydn Demas at (202) 442-4692 or [email protected].
Q. Who will be responsible for payment of VRI Services?
A. ODR will cover the cost of the VRI Services during the pilot program (unless agency payment is arranged).
ODR’s VRI services enable District Agencies to comply with the DC Government’s Effective Communication Policy and adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations.
For more information, please contact [email protected]
