NYS Language Access Policies | Language Access for NYSDHR | Language Access Gateway
Language Access for Individuals with Limited English Proficiency
What is Language Access?
On October 6, 2011, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed 
Executive Order 26, which directs executive state agencies that provide direct public services to offer language assistance services (translation and interpretation) to people of Limited English Proficiency (LEP).
Each agency provides interpretation services between the agency and an individual in his or her primary language with respect to the provision of services or benefits.
Each agency also provides translation services in the six most common non-English languages spoken by LEP individuals in the State of New York, based on the United States census data and relevant to services offered by each of such agencies. At the moment, Spanish, traditional Chinese, Russian, Haitian-Creole, Korean and Italian are the top six languages. Some agencies may also choose to add additional languages based on their experience and other federal requirements.
Language Access Plans of New York State Agencies
LEP individuals are identified in a Language Access Plan developed by each agency. Below are language access plans for all state agencies that provide direct services to the public. The plans are effective May 30, 2017. Agencies will update their plans every two years.
Department of Agriculture & Markets
Department of Corrections and Community Supervision
Department of Economic Development
Department of Environmental Conservation
Department of Financial Services
Department of Taxation and Finance
Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
Division of Criminal Justice Services
Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
Division of Homes and Community Renewal
Division of Military and Naval Affairs
Higher Education Services Corporation
Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs
Office for People with Developmental Disabilities
Office of Information Technology Services
Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence
Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
Office of Children and Family Services
Office of Medicaid Inspector General
Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
Office of the Inspector General
Public Employment Relations Board
Last updated: May 30, 2017