CA AB843

Requires health care service plans and health insurers to provide free language assistance services, including qualified interpreters and translated documents, to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) and their companions

Prohibits plans and insurers from requiring LEP individuals to provide or pay for their own interpreters, and restricts use of minor children or unqualified adults as interpreters except in emergencies

Expands required translated documents for plans marketing in non-English languages to include termination notices, coverage change notices, complaint forms, and cost/payment communications

Establishes technical standards for video and audio remote interpreting services, including requirements for real-time transmission, clear audio/video quality, and adequate staff training

Authorizes administrative penalties of up to $5,000 per violation (or $10,000 for willful violations) for plans and insurers that fail to comply with language access requirements