SSB 5304 — Testing individuals who provide language access to state services.

What this bill does

Provides that the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) must ensure that all language access providers are fluent in English and a primary non-English language through completion of oral and written tests. Prohibits the DSHS from granting testing or certification authority to a private entity with a financial interest in the direct provision of interpreter services. Requires the DSHS to convene a language access work group to study and make recommendations regarding interpretive service certification policies and programs for limited and non-English speaking Washingtonians with a final report due December 1, 2023.

From the Washington State Legislature's nonpartisan staff bill analysis. Read the full analysis ↗

Floor votes

• House — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · April 5, 2023
  94 yea · 4 nay
• Senate — 3rd Reading & Final Passage · March 8, 2023
  48 yea · 0 nay · 1 not voting

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