Professions and vocations: license examinations: interpreters.

Assembly Member Solache's interpreter access legislation would allow applicants who cannot read, speak, or write in English to use qualified interpreters during professional licensing examinations administered by California's Department of Consumer Affairs boards, beginning July 1, 2026. The measure establishes specific eligibility criteria for interpreters, requiring them to be fluent in both English and the applicant's preferred language while prohibiting those who have recent examination interpretation experience or connections to the licensed profession or related educational programs.

The legislation requires boards to permit interpreter use for English portions of licensing examinations when applicants meet all other licensure requirements, except in cases where English proficiency is legally required or when the exam is already offered in the applicant's preferred language. Boards must post multilingual notices about interpreter availability on their websites and add language preference sections to license applications. The measure prohibits boards from charging additional fees for interpreter services.

Starting in 2027, boards must conduct annual reviews of applicant language preferences and submit reports to legislative committees beginning in 2029. These reports will track implementation progress and language accessibility needs through 2033. The requirements apply to most Department of Consumer Affairs boards, excluding those within Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code.