Nebraska court interpreters face funding crisis as legislature weighs budget increase

Nebraska's court system faces a critical challenge as over 90,000 residents struggle with limited English proficiency, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing. During a recent Appropriations Committee meeting, legislators discussed the urgent need for increased funding for court interpreters, a vital service that ensures all individuals can understand and participate in legal proceedings.

Senator Dungan highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate interpreter services, noting that a previous work stoppage in 2023 due to low pay had detrimental effects on the judicial process. He emphasized that without legislative action, the current budget constraints could lead to a reduction in interpreter pay, making it economically unviable for many interpreters to continue their work. This situation could result in longer custody times for defendants and increased costs for taxpayers, as cases that could be resolved quickly are delayed.

The proposed legislation, LB 15, seeks to secure an additional $600,000 in funding to maintain current interpreter pay rates. This funding is crucial not only for the functioning of the court system but also for upholding constitutional obligations to provide language access. The Nebraska State Court Administrator, Corey Steele, supported this request, explaining that interpreters are essential for ensuring justice and effective communication in court, particularly for limited English proficient individuals.

The meeting also addressed the complexities of interpretation, with Senator Dungan sharing his experiences working with interpreters in the Lancaster County court system. He underscored the high level of skill required to interpret legal terminology and idioms accurately, which is often beyond the capabilities of automated translation services.

As the committee continues to deliberate on this funding request, the implications for Nebraska's judicial system and the individuals it serves remain significant. Ensuring that interpreters are adequately compensated is not just a matter of budgetary concern; it is a fundamental aspect of maintaining a fair and accessible legal system for all Nebraskans.