This bill, S.F. No. 2043, introduced in the Minnesota Senate, seeks to improve access to qualified spoken language health care interpreters by establishing a Spoken Language Health Care Interpreter Work Group.

Key Provisions:

1. Definitions (Sec. 1)

   • Defines key terms, including common languages (the 15 most frequently spoken languages in Minnesota) and registered interpreters (those listed on the Department of Health’s roster).

2. Creation of a Work Group (Sec. 2)

   • The Minnesota Commissioner of Health must contract with a neutral consultant to convene a 15-member work group to consult with stakeholders in the health care interpreter field.
   • The work group composition includes:
     • Interpreters from various language backgrounds
     • Representatives of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) individuals
     • Representatives from health plans, health systems, interpreter agencies, and government departments
     • An interpreter training expert and a licensed health provider

3. Work Group Duties (Sec. 2, Subd. 3)

   • The group will develop recommendations to improve spoken language health care interpreting, including:
     • Updating interpreter certification and registry requirements
     • Addressing barriers for interpreters in rural areas and uncommon languages
     • Assessing gaps in interpreter availability and reimbursement issues
     • Evaluating telehealth and remote interpreting qualifications
     • Conducting surveys to gather feedback from interpreters and LEP individuals
     • Exploring funding opportunities for interpreter training and testing

4. Initial Meetings (Sec. 3)

   • The work group must hold its first meeting by October 1, 2025.
   • Members will review research and consult with experts, including sign language and academic interpreting specialists.
   • Public comment opportunities must be provided in at least five common languages with interpreters available.

5. Reporting Requirements (Sec. 4)

   • The Commissioner of Health must submit a report to the legislature, including policy recommendations and potential legislative changes, by November 1, 2026.

6. Funding (Sec. 5)

   • A one-time appropriation for fiscal year 2026 will fund the establishment of the work group.
   • The funds will be available until June 30, 2027.

Overall Summary:

This bill aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of health care interpreting services in Minnesota by creating a structured work group to address challenges within the field, improve certification processes, and identify funding and policy solutions.