LANGUAGE ACCESS

The Dymally–Alatorre Bilingual Services Act became the law in 1973 to eliminate language barriers that block non-English speakers from equal access to public services. The Act directs every state and local agency that serves a significant percentage of non-English speakers to provide translators in their languages and must also provide educational materials in those languages. Every two years, each State and local agency must review the number of people who primarily use languages other than English in their area. The results of this survey are collected by the California State Personnel Board and reported to the Legislature.

DEPARTMENTAL POLICY STATEMENT

The Parentage Opportunity Program is responsible for ensuring that all persons, including those who are non-English speaking, are provided equal access to the available services and information of the Program. The program shall deliver services in ways that recognize individual differences and are sensitive to cultural differences. Effective communication with customers who are non-English speaking shall be achieved through bilingual staff, translated written materials, and contracted interpreter/translation services.

If you have any questions, need more information about the Dymally–Alatorre Bilingual Services Act, or have a complaint about the level of bilingual services from this department, please contact the Parentage Opportunity Program by calling 916.464.1982.