Concerning court interpreters.

Changed the requirement for interpreters from being 'certified or registered' to being 'credentialed,' allowing judges to approve interpreters based on demonstrated ability rather than just a specific list.

Updated the judge's evaluation process to require a preliminary determination on the record that the interpreter can accurately convey communications, considering testimony and the specific needs of the person.

Clarified that judges must inquire about an interpreter's ability to use both consecutive and simultaneous modes if those methods are expected to be used in the proceeding.

Added a requirement for judges to conduct an appropriate colloquy or process permitted by statute or regulation before confirming an interpreter's qualifications.

Expanded court reimbursement for interpreter costs to apply to all legal proceedings, removing the previous restriction that limited reimbursement to cases at public expense.

The bill title was changed from 'HOUSE BILL 1174' to 'SUBSTITUTE HOUSE BILL 1174', and the bill number was updated from Z-0267.1 to H-0700.1 to reflect its progression through the legislative process.

The procedural history was updated to show the bill was read first time on 02/18/25 and referred to the Committee on Civil Rights & Judiciary, replacing the original prefile and referral dates.

The requirement for court-credentialed interpreters in court-mandated classes was removed, allowing for the use of non-certified interpreters.

A new provision was added allowing contracts with outside providers for court-mandated classes to require the provider to bear the cost of interpreter services.

The structure of exemptions for interpreter costs was reorganized to explicitly list conditions under which a person with limited English proficiency is not responsible for interpreter costs in court-mandated classes.

Deleted a section that exempted individuals in court-mandated classes from paying for interpreters if they were parties, subpoenaed, or guardians.

Removed the requirement that contracts for court-contracted outside providers must allow the provider to bear interpreter costs.

Updated the bill title from 'Substitute House Bill' to 'Second Substitute House Bill' and changed the 'Read First Time' date from February 18 to February 28, 2025.

Changed the committee assignment from 'Civil Rights & Judiciary' to 'Appropriations'.