S2193

The Senate passed legislation amending the Criminal Procedure Law on a 40-21 vote, with the measure sponsored by Sen. Bailey. The bill addresses translation and language access in criminal proceedings. During floor debate, Sen. Krueger spoke in support, recounting her experience as a juror in a case where a non-English speaking defendant had no translator, resulting in an unfair trial. Krueger argued the measure is essential to ensure fair treatment under law and could reduce trial costs by preventing cases from proceeding when defendants cannot understand the charges against them. The bill takes effect 90 days after becoming law. Twenty-one senators, primarily from the Republican conference, voted against the measure.