MS HB1223

Expands definition of "Limited English Proficient (LEP) individual" to include witnesses and participants, not just parties, in court proceedings.

Revises the interpreter's oath to require accurate, complete, and impartial interpretation in accordance with Mississippi Rules on Standards for Court Interpreters and the Mississippi Code of Ethics for Court Interpreters.

Allows LEP individuals to waive interpreter services with a written waiver in their native language that is knowing, voluntary, and approved by the court, with ability to retract the waiver at any time.

Requires all court interpreters, whether credentialed or not, to comply with ethical requirements of the Mississippi Court Interpreter Credentialing Program.

Mandates each Mississippi court submit an annual report to the Administrative Office of Courts detailing bilingual staff availability, language access plans, translated documents, interpreter usage statistics, and staff training plans.

Expands funding provisions to allow interpreter expenses to be paid from any available source of funds for any LEP party, witness, or participant in civil and criminal proceedings.