TX SB1537

Amends Article 38.30(a) of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to require interpreter appointments in criminal proceedings to comply with Section 57.002 of the Government Code

Clarifies that the court must determine whether a defendant or witness does not understand and speak English before appointing an interpreter

Requires interpreters to be sworn before interpreting for a defendant or witness in criminal proceedings

Allows defendants or witnesses to nominate an intermediary if the only available interpreter lacks adequate skills or familiarity with slang for the particular situation

Takes effect immediately with two-thirds legislative vote, otherwise September 1, 2025; passed Senate 27-3 on April 10, 2025, and House 105-39 on May 20, 2025