Bill > S04525

This bill amends the criminal procedure law to ensure accurate interpretation of statements made by individuals with limited English proficiency in legal documents. Specifically, the bill requires that any accusatory instrument (such as a criminal complaint) or supporting deposition containing statements originally made in a language other than English must be accompanied by additional documentation to be considered legally sufficient. The bill provides two acceptable methods for meeting this requirement: Option A involves providing a statement in the deponent's primary language with a signed verification, an English translation by an interpreter, and an affidavit from the interpreter affirming their qualifications and translation accuracy. Option B requires a written English translation of the original statement by an interpreter, along with a detailed affidavit that confirms the interpreter's qualifications, the accuracy of the translation, confirmation that the content was accurately communicated to the deponent, verification that the deponent confirmed the allegations, and confirmation that the verification statement was also accurately translated. The goal of this bill is to protect the rights of individuals with limited English proficiency by ensuring that their statements are accurately translated and understood throughout legal proceedings. The bill will take effect 90 days after becoming law.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S4525