New York Governor Hochul Adds American Sign Language to State Language Access Act

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant expansion of the state's Language Access Act to include American Sign Language (ASL). This measure aims to improve accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing residents by treating ASL as a fully recognized linguistic option rather than merely a disability accommodation. The announcement was made at the Rochester Institute of Technology by Christopher Woodfill, executive director of the State Office for the Deaf, Blind and Hard of Hearing. Under this new provision, state agencies will be required to provide government information and services through translated videos in ASL, ensuring easier access for those with limited English proficiency or hearing impairments. This builds upon the 2022 Language Access Act, which already mandates interpretation services and document translation into 12 specific languages, including Spanish, Chinese, and Russian. With over 5.7 million New Yorkers speaking languages other than English, nearly half of whom have limited English proficiency, this update addresses critical barriers to accessing essential government programs. The move underscores New York's ongoing efforts to eliminate language barriers in public services and healthcare, reinforcing the state's commitment to inclusive governance and equal access for all residents regardless of their primary mode of communication.