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Language Access

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The Language Access Program is dedicated to removing language as a barrier to obtaining information and services from the District government.

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Language Access
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Language Access Program Information

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Welcome to the Language Access Program Resource Portal

This portal provides information about the Language Access Program and its role in supporting access to DC government services for Limited English Proficient (LEP) or Non-English Proficient (NEP) individuals who speak languages other than English, such as filing a claim.

Below, you will find summaries of the program and instructions on how to file a claim, available in the following languages. Please note, if you require additional assistance, such as access in another language, please contact the DC Office of Human Rights (OHR), which information is below.

If you are part of a DC government agency, department, or program whose activities directly or in-directly interacts with the LEP/NEP community and is funded by DC government agency you will find Language Access compliance implementation guides and resources further down on this page.

If you are looking for more information about Language Access or if you believe that your language rights have been violated, below you will find guidance on how to file an initial Language Access complaint.

Lastly, if you are an Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (ANC) seeking Language Reimbursement you find resources below.

What is the Language Access Program and the DC Language Access Act of 2004

No matter what language you speak, you have the right to receive information and services from the DC government. The Language Access Program works with District agencies to make this right a reality for residents, workers, and visitors who are limited or non-English proficient (LEP/NEP). Limited or no-English proficiency means the inability to adequately understand or to express oneself in the spoken or written English language. Established by the Language Access Act of 2004 (LAA), the Language Access Program (LAP) is based out of the DC Office of Human Rights.

The Language Access Act of 2004 applies to all District agencies, departments, programs, contractors, and grantees that interact with the public. It requires them to provide language access services to all constituents who need assistance when conducting official business in English. The District of Columbia recognizes these individuals as limited or non-English proficient (LEP/NEP). LEP/NEP individuals have the right to the following language access services, 1) Translation, 2) Interpretation, and 3) Signage.

While the Act encompasses both spoken and written language, it does not extend to visual languages such as American Sign Language (ASL).

To explore and learn more about what the language access program does, the law, language access annual compliance report, and outreach please follow the link here.

How to File a Language Access Complaint

It is illegal for DC government agencies, departments, programs, contractors, and grantees to prevent LEP/NEP constituents from accessing services because of a language barrier. If you or someone you know is denied language accommodation, contact OHR to file a complaint using the resources below; please note that when a complaint is filed, the Language Access Program Director will attempt to ensure that the complainant receives the language assistance they are seeking before launching a full investigation.

There are three ways you can file a complaint:

1. File Online

2. File by Email

3. File by Mail or In-Person

  • You can also complete the above form, print it out, and send it to the following address by mail
District of Columbia Office of Human Rights
Attn: Language Access Program
441 4th Street, N.W., Suite 570 North
Washington, DC 20001
  • Or you can visit our office below and a staff member can receive it or provide in-person assistance

Requirements, Resources, and Toolkit for Covered Entities

A covered entity means a District government agency, department, or program that furnishes information or renders services, programs, or activities directly to the public or contracts with other entities, either directly or indirectly, to conduct such programs, services, or activities. All covered entities must designate a Language Access representative to implement LA requirements at their respective agencies. The term covered entity does not include Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANC) - please see the ANC section below for more information.

Major Public Contact vs Non-Major Public Contact

Another important part of covered entities is understanding the difference between Major Public Contact and Non-Major Public. This can be difficult to understand, but it comes down to three fundamental differences:

  • Major Public Contact agencies actively conduct outreach with the public, whereas Non-Major Public Contact are not required to.
  • Major Public Contact agencies establish and implement a Biennial Language Access Plan (BLAP), whereas Non-Major Public Contact do not establish them.
  • Major Public Contact agencies collect data for quarterly/annually reporting, whereas Non-Major Public Contact collects data for the annual report.

Major Public Agencies

There are 39 covered entities with major public contact within the DC government. As stated above, they must identify a Language Access Coordinator to collect and report data on languages other than English encountered by agency staff. Additional responsibilities include vital document translations, dissemination of LA resources to agency staff, report language access violations to OHR and more.

To learn more on the Major Public Agencies’ responsibilities, compliance requirements and resources, please click here.

Non-Major Public Agencies

There are 27 covered entities with non-major public contact within the DC government. As stated above, they must identify a Language Access Point of Contact (LAPOC) to collect and report data on languages other than English encountered by agency staff. Additional responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the dissemination of LA resources to agency staff, completing the annual implementation report to OHR, and reporting language access violations to OHR.

To learn more about all Non-Major Public Agencies’ responsibilities, compliance requirements and resources, please click here.

Toolkits for Covered Entities

The Language Access Program maintains a toolkit with the purpose of how to interact with LEP and NEPs. These include updated information, such as guides, tips for providing translation/interpretation, and interpretation-waiver forms.

To view and download these resources, please visit here.

Resources for the General Public

All District agencies, departments, programs, contractors, and grantees that interact with the public are required to assist limited English proficient and non-English proficient individuals in accessing government services, regardless of language barriers. This includes providing translations, interpretations, and signage in individuals' native languages. The Language Access Program develops and maintains the Language Access Coordinator and Point of Contact Directories, which can be viewed below:

Additionally, there are several other downloadable signage for covered entities, including Language Identification Poster and I-Speak Cards. The language signage can be viewed and downloaded by following this link.

Advisory Neighborhood Commissions (ANC) Language Reimbursement Process Resources

Pursuant to Advisory Neighborhood Commissions Omnibus Act of 2016, ANCs can be reimbursed by the Office of Human Rights (OHR) for costs related to translation and interpretation services, and purchase or rental of assistive listening systems ensuring full participation for residents and Commissioners with limited or no English proficiency.

Language Reimbursement is available for:

  • Interpretation of Meetings/Proceedings: Includes in-person and video remote interpretation.
  • Document Translation: Covers agendas, minutes, outreach materials, and more.
  • Assistive Listening Systems: For hearing-impaired participants.

Please note: The ANC Omnibus Act of 2016 does not include reimbursement for American Sign Language (ASL) services.

ANCs should submit the ANC Reimbursement Form and attach invoices, service quotes, and proof of payment no late than 6 days after the fiscal year ends. To view and download reimbursement forms, training information, and instructions for reimbursement request, please click here.

Additional Questions and Comments

If you have any further questions about the above information, please contact the LA Program via:

  • LA Program Team E-mail: ohr.languageaccess@dc.gov
  • OHR Office Location: 441 4th Street NW, Suite 570N, Washington, DC 20001
  • OHR Desk Phone: (202) 727-4559

When you call or visit us and require language assistance, our staff will connect you with a live interpreter to ensure we can assist you effectively.

Please note that while OHR is available to answer questions to the best of our ability, any information provided should not be considered legal advice.

 

This webpage was last updated on July 7, 2025

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