(b) Each facility shall facilitate access to services by persons who are non-English-speaking, deaf or hard-of-hearing. Such persons shall include:

1. (1) persons who seek or are referred to the facility's services; and
2. (2) persons who receive the facility's services.

(c) In addressing the communication needs of persons who are non-English-speaking, deaf or hard-of-hearing in accordance with subdivisions (a)-(b) of this section, each facility shall take reasonable steps to ensure that:

1. (1) the overall quality and level of services are equal to that made available to all other recipients;
2. (2) necessary steps are taken to provide information in appropriate languages;
3. (3) the timely availability of interpreters is provided, when necessary for effective communication;
4. (4) persons serving as interpreters are sufficiently competent to ensure effective communication. Such interpreters may include, but are not limited to, facility staff, community volunteers or contractors. In no event shall recipients be charged for the use of interpreter services;
5. (5) effective communication with non-English-speaking persons is provided in accordance with title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 USC 2000d). Said law is published by the West Publishing Company, St. Paul, MN and is available for review at the Department of State, Division of Administrative Rules, One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231, and the Office of Mental Health, Counsel's Office, 44 Holland Avenue, Albany, NY 12229; and
6. (6) effective communication with persons who are deaf or hard-of-hearing is provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (Public Law 101-336). Said law is published by the West Publishing Company, St. Paul, MN and is available for review at the Department of State, Division of Administrative Rules, One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231, and the Office of Mental Health, Counsel's Office, 44 Holland Avenue, Albany, NY 12229.