Courts press for clearer sign-language rules and interpreter funding

Court leaders told the committee that language access—especially for sign-language users and court interpreters—is a rising cost driver and operational challenge across jurisdictions.

Dawn Marie Rubio, AOC director, said one legislative proposal is a revision to RCW 2.42 "regarding sign language interpreters" to update terminology, clarify when courts must provide interpreters, and align statute with federal ADA obligations. "This proposal would update terminology that is now considered offensive, inappropriate, or inaccurate," Rubio said.

Why it matters: speakers said local courts face growing interpreter costs and more requests for accommodations under GR 33 (ADA). Multiple presenters urged funding for pass-through reimbursements and a centralized credentialing and technical-assistance role to ensure consistent statewide service and to reduce local court strain.

Committee members asked AOC to estimate ongoing interpreter demand and to clarify how statutory changes would interact with existing court language-access plans.