NY A07780

Requires the Department of Social Services to develop and implement a plan ensuring adequate access to information for individuals with limited English proficiency or who need communication assistance.

Mandates translation of necessary documents, forms, and instructions into the 12 most common non-English languages spoken by limited-English proficiency individuals in New York, based on U.S. census data, with discretion to add up to 4 additional languages.

Requires the department to offer interpretation services upon request between program administrators and individuals in their primary language regarding provision of services or benefits.

Mandates offering services upon request or demonstrated need for individuals requiring assistance due to deafness, blindness, speech impediment, or cognitive impairment.

Directs the department to work with the Office for the Aging to provide additional translation services to assist in informing low-income and elderly households about supplemental nutrition assistance program eligibility.

Takes effect 90 days after enactment, with provisions expiring and reverting with the underlying social services law section.