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Language Access Act
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Mayor Williams Signs Language Access Act
(Washington, DC) On Wednesday, April 21, Mayor Anthony A. Williams signed
into law the Language Access Act. The purpose of the Language Access Act
is to provide greater access and participation in public services, programs
and activities for residents of the District of Columbia who have limited or
no English proficiency.
The Act requires that District governmental programs, departments, and
services assess the need for and offer oral language services, and provide
written translations. In addition, DC programs that have major contact with
the public must establish and implement a language access plan and designate
a language access coordinator. The Act requires that the Office of Human Rights
coordinate and supervise DC government programs, departments and services in
complying with the Act.
Representatives from the District's diverse immigrant community, along with the
directors of the Executive Office on Latino Affairs, Office on Asian and Pacific
Islander Affairs, and Office of Human Rights, joined Mayor Williams at today's
signing ceremony.
"Language access is a civil rights issue, and it's a customer service issue," said
Mayor Williams. "This legislation will allow local immigrant residents access to
the District government services and benefits they need and are entitled to. I'm
glad that the District is a national leader in providing fair treatment of our
immigrant communities, and I commend Jim Graham for finding a way to make this
work."
The DC Council passed the Language Access Act, introduced by Councilmember Jim
Graham, on April 6.
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