S.B. No. 1537 amends Article 38.30(a) of the Code of Criminal Procedure to clarify the process for appointing interpreters in criminal proceedings. The bill stipulates that when a motion for the appointment of an interpreter is filed by any party or initiated by the court, and if the court determines that a person charged or a witness does not understand and speak English, an interpreter must be appointed as outlined in Section 57.002 of the Government Code. The bill also allows for any person to be subpoenaed or recognized to act as an interpreter under the same rules as witnesses, ensuring that the interpreting process is adequately supported.

Additionally, the bill addresses situations where the only available interpreter may lack the necessary skills or familiarity with specific slang. In such cases, the court may permit the person charged or the witness to nominate another individual to serve as an intermediary between them and the appointed interpreter. This amendment aims to enhance communication in criminal proceedings, ensuring that all parties can effectively understand and participate in the legal process. The act will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.