HI HB2227

Appropriates general revenue funds for fiscal year 2016-2017 to operate the Statewide Language Access Resource Center within the Office of Language Access, enabling state agencies and covered entities to provide interpretation and translation services to limited English proficient individuals.

Appropriates general revenue funds for fiscal year 2016-2017 to operate the Multilingual Website Pilot Project within the Office of Language Access, allowing limited English proficient individuals to access information about government services in their native language.

Recognizes that while Act 217 (2013) established initial funding for these language access resources, additional permanent staffing and funding are necessary to maintain and expand services.

Notes that the Office of Language Access has begun building a publicly available roster of language service providers and contracting with vendors to develop the multilingual website, despite previous funding and staffing constraints.

Effective date set for July 1, 2070 (note: appears to contain a typographical error in the effective date).