Bill > S04170

This bill requires state agencies to provide comprehensive language assistance services to individuals with limited English proficiency, ensuring they can effectively access government programs and services. The bill mandates that agencies offer language services like interpretation and translation in person when possible, translate frequently used forms into primary languages, and provide written notice about the availability of these services. Agencies must maintain records of the primary languages spoken by individuals seeking assistance and submit annual reports to the president detailing their compliance, including information about the primary languages used by the public and the percentage of interactions in those languages. The bill defines key terms such as "primary language" (a language other than English used in at least 5% of public visits or spoken by more than 5% of the service area population), "agency" (state governmental entities excluding the judiciary and legislature), and "limited English proficient individual" (a person unable to effectively communicate in English). The legislation aims to improve language access and communication for non-English speaking individuals across state agencies, with implementation beginning 180 days after becoming law.