Language Access Rulemaking Temporary Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Brianne Nadeau

The bill enhances access to government services for individuals with limited English proficiency by empowering the Office of Human Rights to implement necessary rules.

Law Number L26-0079 Effective from Dec 31, 2025, Expires on Aug 13, 2027

Purpose and Intent

The Language Access Rulemaking Temporary Amendment Act of 2025 aims to amend the Language Access Act of 2004 temporarily. The primary goal is to empower the Office of Human Rights to adopt necessary rules and regulations for implementing the provisions of the Language Access Act, thereby enhancing access to government services for individuals with limited English proficiency.

Key Provisions

Amendment to the Language Access Act: The bill introduces a new subsection (c) to Section 6 of the Language Access Act of 2004. This subsection mandates that the Mayor shall issue rules to implement the act's provisions, following the guidelines set forth in the District of Columbia Administrative Procedure Act.

Applicability: The provisions of this act are retroactively applicable as of June 19, 2004, the original effective date of the Language Access Act.

Fiscal Impact Statement: The Council adopts the fiscal impact statement from the Budget Director, which outlines the financial implications of the bill as required by the General Legislative Procedures Act of 1975.

Effective Date and Expiration:

The act will take effect after approval by the Mayor, or following a Council override of a potential veto, and a 30-day congressional review period.
The act is set to expire 225 days after it takes effect.

Who Would Be Affected?

The bill primarily affects:
- Individuals with Limited English Proficiency: This group will benefit from improved access to government services due to the implementation of the Language Access Act.
- Office of Human Rights: This office will gain the authority to create rules and regulations to facilitate better language access.
- District Government Agencies: Agencies will be required to comply with the new rules, ensuring that language access is prioritized in service delivery.

Legislative Timeline

October 2, 2025: Bill B26-0373 introduced by Councilmember Brianne K. Nadeau.

October 7, 2025: First reading of the bill.

October 10, 2025: Notice of intent to act published in the District of Columbia Register.

October 21, 2025: Final reading conducted.

October 30, 2025: Transmitted to the Mayor for approval.

November 13, 2025: Signed by the Mayor and enacted as Act Number A26-0198.

Conclusion

The Language Access Rulemaking Temporary Amendment Act of 2025 represents a significant step towards improving language access for residents of the District of Columbia. By enabling the Office of Human Rights to establish rules for the Language Access Act, the bill seeks to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their language proficiency, can effectively access government services.

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