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HRES 1148

Expressing support for the recognition of April as "National Language Access Month".

119th Congress Introduced by Nanette Barragán and 30 co-sponsors

Congress supports designating April as "National Language Access Month" to promote services for limited-English-proficient individuals in government, healthcare, and education sectors.

Submitted in House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HRES 1148

Legislative bill overview

HRES 1148 is a non-binding resolution expressing congressional support for designating April as "National Language Access Month." The resolution recognizes the importance of language accessibility services and aims to draw attention to barriers faced by limited-English-proficient individuals in accessing government services, healthcare, education, and other critical areas.

Why is this important

Approximately 67 million Americans speak a language other than English at home, with millions having limited English proficiency. Language barriers can prevent access to essential services, legal protections, and civic participation. Designating a national month could increase awareness among agencies and organizations about language access obligations and best practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: While the resolution itself is non-binding and carries no direct costs, it may signal expectations for agencies to expand language services, which requires funding for translation and interpretation
  • Scope of "language access": Disagreement over which languages should receive priority services and how broadly accessibility requirements should be applied across different sectors
  • Federalism concerns: Questions about whether federal mandates on language services infringe on state and local autonomy in managing their own operations and budgets

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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