Translating Into Success: Key Features of U.S. State & Local Language Access Laws and Policies
MPI researchers examined common features and innovation found in a scan of state and local language access laws and policies in more than 40 states, and offered practical insights local governments can employ as linguistic diversity in their communities grows.
The U.S. population included more than 25 million Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals in 2019, four out of five of whom were foreign born. Language barriers can pose serious obstacles for immigrant integration and hamper access to essential public services, ranging from schools and health care to police, fire departments, and the legal system. Recognizing the serious health, safety, and civil-rights issues at stake, many states and localities have introduced language access laws and policies to ensure LEP individuals have effective access to critical government services.
On this webinar, MPI researchers presented an analysis that examined the common features and notable areas of innovation found in more than 40 state and local language access laws and policies. The discussion explored aspects of the policies that seek to build capacities to support their implementation and ensure the quality and consistency of services provided to LEP individuals. The conversation also illuminated key policy design elements and vital practical insights that state and local governments can employ as they face growing linguistic diversity and the need to ensure all residents have meaningful access to public information and services.
Speakers:
Margie McHugh, Director, National Center on Immigrant Integration Policy
Jacob Hofstetter, Associate Policy Analyst, National Center on Immigrant Integration Policy
About the National Center on Immigrant Integration Policy
The Center is a national hub connecting policymakers, educators, community leaders, and service providers with evidence-informed policy research, technical assistance, and data to advance effective immigrant integration at U.S., state, and local levels.
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