New York State
Language Access Law and Statement on Federal Executive Order 14224
The federal administration issued Executive Order 14224 Designating English as the Official Language of the United States in March 2025. On Monday, July 14, 2025, the Office of the Attorney General released guidance on implementing Executive Order 14224, suspending language access operations within the federal government.
Overview
Language Assistance Services
There are millions of New Yorkers who do not speak English as their primary language and have limited ability to read, speak, write, or understand English. For these New Yorkers, their Limited English Proficiency status presents potential barriers to accessing important government programs and services.
The Office of Language Access provides critical oversight and coordination across New York State agencies to ensure that the statewide language access policy, which Governor Hochul expanded in April 2022, is implemented efficiently and effectively. The Office of Language Access is a part of the Office of General Services, which also supports New York’s language access policy by maintaining the State contract through which agencies are able to access vendors that provide interpretation and translation services.
American Sign Language
Submit a Complaint
What if someone does not receive adequate language assistance or is denied services?
It is the policy of New York State for covered agencies to provide language access services for public services and programs. If you or someone you know feel that you have not been provided with adequate language access services, including translation or interpretation, please fill out our language access complaint form.
American Sign Language
Submit a Complaint
