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Bill to allow interpreters for certain licensing exams advanced after lengthy Q&A on translation and timing
Summary
AB 667 would permit applicants for certain business licenses to use interpreters to translate licensing exams not offered in their preferred language; the committee advanced the bill after discussion about certified translators, timed exams and data collection.
Assemblymember Solace presented AB 667 to allow applicants for certain business licenses administered by the Department of Consumer Affairs to use an interpreter to translate licensing exams not offered in the applicant's preferred language.
Edgar Ortiz of the California Immigrant Policy Center testified in support, saying the measure would expand career access for the roughly 6.2 million Californians with limited English proficiency and that the bill is an "interim step" toward full translation of exams.
"Our decision for pursuing this model was informed by conversations with roughly 10 different licensing boards," Edgar Ortiz told the committee, adding that translated exams remain a longer-term goal but would require more work and resources.
Questions from committee members focused on quality control for interpreters, whether certified translators would be required, and whether timed exams would need time accommodations. Ortiz said certified translators were not required under the bill as written, but the author and sponsors were open to exploring vetted interpreter lists and additional accommodations for timing.
Committee members noted the bill includes data-collection elements to help state agencies understand language barriers and identify future steps. The committee passed AB 667 as amended to the Committee on Appropriations.
