Bill > S1544

This bill amends Massachusetts law to strengthen requirements for interpreter services in healthcare facilities for non-English speaking patients. The legislation defines key terms, including "non-English speaker" as someone who has difficulty understanding or speaking English, and "competent interpreter services" as professional interpretation by a fluent, trained individual familiar with specialized medical terminology. Healthcare facilities will be required to provide qualified interpreter services for all non-English speaking patients, with flexibility to employ on-site interpreters, contract with interpreters, or use telephone/video interpretation services when necessary. The bill ensures that receiving interpreter services will not be considered a "public benefit" that could impact immigration status. Facilities must substantially comply with these requirements for licensing, and non-English speaking patients who are denied appropriate care due to lack of interpretation can pursue legal action in superior court. The legislation allows patients to seek declaratory or injunctive relief, with a minimum $250 in damages for each violation, and permits legal action within three years of a service failure. This bill aims to improve healthcare access and communication for non-English speaking individuals in Massachusetts healthcare settings.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S1544