Brazilian Sign Language accessibility and regulation

Efforts to improve accessibility and professional standards for Brazilian Sign Language (Libras) have progressed through both legislative and judicial channels in Brazil.

In the Senate, the Education and Culture Commission approved Bill 3.878/2024. This legislation proposes that Libras translators, interpreters, and guide-interpreters undergo practical evaluations to ensure competency in sectors such as health, law, and education. The bill seeks to supplement existing regulations by requiring professionals to demonstrate practical skills through processes organized by public or private institutions.

Concurrently, the Federal Public Ministry (MPF) has initiated legal action against the National Institute for Educational Studies and Research Anísio Teixeira (Inep). The MPF is seeking to guarantee full accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing candidates during the 2026 National Teacher Exam (PND). The lawsuit demands that Inep provide video exams in Libras or full-time interpreters for all content, arguing that current limitations force candidates to take exams in a second language rather than their primary one.