This bill amends RCW 28A.410.271 to enhance the standards and certification processes for educational interpreters in Washington state. It introduces new definitions and requirements, including the establishment of separate standards for deaf and deaf-blind educational interpreters. The Professional Educator Standards Board is tasked with adopting these standards, identifying and publicizing educational interpreter assessments, and establishing both full and limited performance standards for certification. The bill also mandates that by December 1, 2026, the board must publicly share data on educational interpreter certifications, including demographic information and geographic distribution.

Additionally, the bill outlines the certification process for educational interpreters, specifying that those who do not meet the full performance standard may still provide services for a limited time while demonstrating ongoing efforts to achieve certification. It also allows the board to set rules regarding the number of attempts an interpreter may take to qualify for certification. The provisions of this section do not apply to interpreters using sign systems or languages for which no suitable assessment exists. Overall, the bill aims to improve the quality and accountability of educational interpreter services for students who are deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of hearing.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 28A.410.271