BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 3627

By: Reynolds

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

There are concerns that the eligibility requirements for a person providing court-related interpreter services in Texas are too stringent, which limit the number of available interpreters and potentially delay the administration of justice. It has been noted that any person licensed as a basic interpreter is eligible to provide services in federal courts, as these interpreters have been deemed sufficiently qualified by the federal government. H.B. 3627 seeks to address this issue by harmonizing state law with the standards of the U.S. Department of Justice regarding court interpreters. 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 3627 amends the Government Code to authorize a licensed court interpreter to interpret court proceedings in all courts in Texas, regardless of whether the interpreter's license has a basic designation or master designation.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2019.