Southwest Montana News

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) in Montana is set to host a virtual training session for businesses on the use of Montana Relay services. The free event will take place on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, from 1 to 2 p.m.

DPHHS Director Adam Meier highlighted the challenges faced by many Montanans with hearing or speech difficulties when making phone calls. "The training is a way to educate businesses about Montana Relay and to raise awareness about this important issue to the public," Meier stated. He emphasized the agency's commitment to improving customer service and removing barriers for individuals with disabilities.

Mary Taylor, Director of the Montana Telecommunications Access Program (MTAP), explained that the webinar would cover an overview of relay services and provide tips for effective communication with Montana Relay callers. "In general, relay users are frequently hung up on due to the pauses that take place when the message is being relayed back and forth," Taylor noted. She stressed the importance of successful communication between Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals and businesses.

Businesses interested in participating can contact MTAP at 800-833-8503, email relay@mt.gov, or register online at montanarelay.mt.gov. Participating businesses will receive a "Relay Friendly Business" designation from MTAP, including a storefront decal and recognition on the DPHHS website.

Taylor also mentioned that while there is no requirement for re-certification, ongoing training for new staff is recommended. MTAP aims to enhance life quality for Deaf, hard-of-hearing, speech-, and mobility-disabled residents in Montana. The program handles over 800 calls monthly through Montana Relay and has 1,538 active clients.

Montana Relay services operate around-the-clock via dialing 711, facilitating communication between those using specialized devices and standard voice telephone users. Additionally, MTAP provides specialized telecommunications equipment to its clients as part of its mandate under legislation enacted following the Americans with Disabilities Act.