HI SB3238

Establishes the Language Access Education and Workforce Development Program at the University of Hawaii to train translators and interpreters for public service settings including education, health care, legal services, and government programs.

Program curriculum includes training in translation/interpretation ethics and standards, specialized instruction for public service settings, and a certificate of completion for qualified translation and interpretation proficiency.

Administered by the UH SEED office in collaboration with the Department of Education, Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, and other public and private entities, with internship opportunities through the Hele Imua program.

Admission priority given to high school graduates who earned the Department of Education's seal of biliteracy; other applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one additional language.

Appropriates unspecified general fund revenues for fiscal year 2026-2027, including 3.0 full-time equivalent positions, with an effective date of July 1, 2026.