Bill > HB1174

This bill updates and modernizes Washington state's laws regarding court interpreters, focusing on improving language access for individuals with limited English proficiency. The bill replaces outdated terminology like "non-English-speaking person" with "person with limited English proficiency" and establishes a more comprehensive credentialing system for interpreters. Key provisions include requiring courts to develop and maintain language access plans, mandating that courts use credentialed interpreters whenever possible, and establishing more detailed procedures for interpreter selection and appointment. The bill also updates guidelines for interpreter fees, requires courts to provide translated information on their websites, and ensures that individuals with limited English proficiency are not responsible for interpreter costs in most legal proceedings. Additionally, the legislation requires the administrative office of the courts to provide technical assistance to trial courts in developing their language access plans and to maintain a list of credentialed interpreters. The overall goal is to ensure meaningful access to the court system for individuals who are not fluent in English, while maintaining high standards of interpretation accuracy and professionalism.