CA AB1376

Requires qualified interpreters to be provided at no cost to injured workers who cannot proficiently speak or understand English during medical treatment appointments.

Establishes March 1, 2014 as the effective date for interpreter qualification requirements established by the Administrative Director, which must be substantially similar to requirements in Health and Safety Code Section 1367.04.

Mandates employers or insurance carriers pay for interpreter services upon request of the injured employee, except for non-certified or provisionally certified interpreters unless the employer consents or the worker requires a language outside designated languages.

Clarifies that qualified interpreters for medical treatment appointments are not required to meet the same certification standards as interpreters for medical examinations requested by employers or officials.

Took effect immediately upon Governor approval on October 13, 2013 as an urgency statute.