New York’s Language Access Policies

Under New York’s language access law, all State agencies that interact with
the public must provide interpretation services in any language with respect
to the provision of agency services or benefits and must translate vital
agency documents into the top 12 most commonly spoken non-English
languages among limited English proficient (LEP) New Yorkers based on
Census data. In addition, State agencies also have the option to offer up to four additional
languages beyond the required 12 based on factors such as regional language access needs,
the number of recently arrived immigrants who have limited English proficiency, feedback
from community groups, and the populations of individuals with limited English proficiency
most commonly served by different agencies. If you have a court appearance, it is important
to inform the court prior to the court date so they have enough time to arrange for an
interpreter to be at the court date.

To learn more, please visit the NY Office of General Services website.