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A 2332

Requires any website or mobile application associated with an electronic benefit transfer system to be offered in the twelve most common non-English languages

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Berger and 2 co-sponsors

Requires EBT websites and apps to offer interfaces in the twelve most common non-English languages, boosting LEP access and forcing vendors and agencies to translate and adapt.

REFERRED TO SOCIAL SERVICES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 2332

Bill Summary — A2332 (2025)

Overview

A2332 (print versions A and B) requires that any website or mobile application "associated with an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) system" be offered in the twelve most common non‑English languages. The bill was introduced January 16, 2025, passed the Assembly on May 20, 2025, and was delivered to the Senate and referred to the Senate Social Services Committee for further consideration.

Main purpose and intent

The bill is intended to improve access to public benefit services for people with limited English proficiency (LEP) by ensuring that digital interfaces used to access, manage, or obtain information about EBT benefits are available in the most commonly spoken non‑English languages in the state.

Key provisions (as indicated by the title)

  • Requires websites and mobile applications that are associated with an EBT system to be offered in the twelve most common non‑English languages.
  • Applies to digital platforms used to administer, provide information about, or allow users to manage EBT benefits.

Note: The full statutory text and implementation details (definitions of “associated with,” the precise list of twelve languages, compliance timeframe, enforcement mechanisms, or exemptions) were not provided in the materials supplied. Those specifics would be found in the bill text (Print Nos. A2332A / A2332B).

Who would be affected

  • Recipients of EBT benefits who have limited English proficiency — increased language access for benefit information, account management, transaction histories, problem resolution, and potentially online customer support prompts.
  • State agencies and local social services offices that operate or contract for EBT systems — would need to ensure websites/apps meet the multilingual requirement.
  • Third‑party vendors and contractors that develop, host, or maintain EBT portals and mobile apps — likely required to produce and maintain translations and related UI changes.
  • Advocacy organizations and community groups serving LEP populations — potential increased ability to help clients navigate benefits digitally.

Implementation, timeline, and enforcement

  • Legislative status: Introduced Jan 16, 2025; printed as A2332A (2/26/2025) and A2332B (4/21/2025); amended and recommitted to Social Services; advanced to third reading; passed Assembly (5/20/2025); delivered to Senate and referred to Senate Social Services (5/20/2025).
  • The bill as summarized does not specify an effective date, phased implementation schedule, funding for translation work, or enforcement/penalty provisions. Those details typically appear in the bill text or committee reports.

Potential impacts and considerations

  • Positive: Greater access and usability of EBT services for LEP users; may reduce administrative burden caused by errors or in‑person visits; promotes equitable access to benefits.
  • Costs/Operational: One‑time and ongoing costs for translations, UI redesign, testing, and maintenance; contract amendments with EBT vendors; quality control to ensure accurate, culturally and legally appropriate translations.
  • Administrative: Agencies will need to define which apps/sites are “associated with” EBT, select the twelve languages (if not specified), and develop compliance monitoring.

Legislative sponsors and related measures

  • Primary sponsor: Sam Berger
  • Cosponsors: Grace Lee, Paula Kay
  • Related/companion bills: S5807 (Senate companion); A9660 (prior session)

For definitive requirements (language list, enforcement, timelines, and technical standards), consult the bill text (Print Nos. A2332A / A2332B) and committee reports in the Senate Social Services docket.

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

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