The proposed General Assembly Committee Bill No. 955 seeks to improve access to public services for individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) by mandating state and local government entities, as well as state contractors, to adopt comprehensive language access policies. Effective October 1, 2025, the bill defines essential terms such as "limited English proficiency individuals," "language access," "interpretation services," and "translation services." It requires these entities to assess the language needs of their communities, provide necessary translation and interpretation services, and ensure that public-facing materials are accessible to individuals with varying literacy levels. Additionally, each state agency must develop a language access plan, appoint a language access coordinator, and make these plans publicly available online.

The bill also establishes an Office of Language Access within the Department of Consumer Protection to oversee compliance with language access policies, investigate complaints, and analyze data to better serve LEP communities. Specific requirements are placed on health care facilities and educational institutions to provide language assistance to LEP individuals and their families, emphasizing the need for timely and culturally appropriate support in these settings. The legislation includes provisions for reporting on the analysis of services provided and recommendations for further legislative action. The bill introduces new legal language regarding these requirements while deleting certain unspecified existing legal language, with all changes set to take effect on October 1, 2025. Co-sponsors of the bill include Senator Rahman and Representatives Reyes and Turco.