The bill amends South Dakota's administrative contested case procedures to ensure that parties have access to interpreter or translator services. Specifically, it modifies Section 1-26-18 to require that all parties must be afforded the opportunity to respond and present evidence, while also allowing for the procurement of translator or interpreter services as needed. The compensation for these services will be determined and paid as outlined in the new sections added to the law.

Additionally, the bill introduces two new sections to Chapter 1-26. The first section mandates that when a witness or party requires language assistance, the agency responsible for the case must appoint a disinterested interpreter or translator and cover their reasonable fees from the agency's budget. The second section allows the prevailing party in a contested case to recover costs incurred for interpreter or translator services that were necessary for gathering evidence or pursuing the case, which are not already covered by the agency's payment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 01/29/2026: 1-26-18