Texas Senate Bill SB2176

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to qualifications of licensed court interpreters.

Impact

The enactment of SB2176 will enhance the legal framework surrounding court interpretation by ensuring that all licensed interpreters possess a clear designation, either a basic or a master designation. This is crucial in maintaining a consistent quality of interpretation in legal proceedings, which can have a profound effect on justice for non-English speakers. As such, it aims to bolster the rights of individuals who require interpretation services in court and ensure they are adequately served by qualified professionals.

Summary

Senate Bill 2176 addresses the qualifications required for licensed court interpreters in Texas. The bill proposes amendments to the Government Code, specifically within the sections governing the issuance and designation of licenses for court interpreters. Notably, it specifies that licensed interpreters appointed by a court must have an appropriate license designating them for the courts they serve. The bill introduces a more structured framework for what qualifications are necessary, thereby standardizing the requirements across different types of courts.

Contention

There may be debates surrounding the interpretation of what constitutes an adequate qualification. Critics could argue that the new definitions create unnecessary barriers for potential court interpreters who may have the practical experience but lack formal designation. Furthermore, there might be concerns about the accessibility of these licenses and whether they might inadvertently limit the pool of qualified interpreters available to the courts. Ensuring that court interpreters are sufficiently qualified is essential, but this must also be balanced with the need for fair access to these roles.