A Message from Dynamic Language to Interpreters

Below is an email from Dynamic to interpreters about new proposed legislation. Dynamic says that HB1386 and SB 5233 are intend to clarify the interpreter classification through the Dept. of Labor. The problem with Dynamic's statement is sole-proprietors are already excluded under the law these bills are trying to amend, RCW 51.12.020. In addition, we are suspicious of the claims that this legislation is for the interpreter's benefit when Dynamic has paid a lobbyist to help enact this legislation.

From Dynamic:

Language Industry in Washington - New Legislation

I’m writing today to update you on some industry developments here in Washington State that we wanted to make sure that you’re aware of. Recently, our company joined a coalition of 15 Washington-based Language Service Providers that is working on getting legislation passed to help clarify as law the current business relationship between language agencies and linguists that has been in place for decadeRight now, the law in the state of Washington is not very clear in regard to the relationship between interpreters and translators and agencies, and so the desire of the coalition is to clarify that relationship, so that interpreters and translators may remain free to choose to be either: 1. Independent Contractors, working with whomever they choose (through agencies or independently) Or 2. Employees of language companies, working for a single or multiple companies* *We do not seek to preclude this type of employment arrangement This has been in response to actions by the Department of Labor and Industries and Employment Securities which have been incorrectly trying to classify interpreters and translators as *only* employees. What does this legislation mean for you? If it passes, it means that you get to maintain the right to choose whether you want to be an Independent Contractor, or an Employee. As currently, it will be up to you. No matter what, if the legislative effort is successful, there will be zero impact to you, and business will go on as before with you choosing which assignments to accept or reject, and which companies to work with. And just so you know, similar legislation passed in Oregon more than 15 years ago, and both agencies and linguists have continued to work together successfully. If, however, the legislation does not pass, then you may lose the ability to choose whether or not to become a W-2 employee for each and every agency that you choose to work with, whether you perform 3 jobs per year, or 200. The tax implications are fairly self-evident, and not ideal from either the agency or the linguist perspective. If you’d like to discuss this situation in further detail, please feel free to contact me at your earliest convenience. Sandy Dupleich | Partner Dynamic Language 15215 52nd Ave S, Suite 100 Seattle, WA 98188-2354 www.dynamiclanguage.com 206.493.1603Direct | 206.246.1062 Fax