The Nevada Commission on Ethics unanimously adopted a language access plan on Jan. 16, 2025, that lays out steps for improving public access to commission materials and meetings for people with limited English proficiency and for deaf and hard‑of‑hearing community members.

Executive Director Ross Armstrong said the plan follows a template from the Governor’s Office of New Americans and responds to NRS 232.0081’s requirement that agencies provide public comment opportunities and language access procedures. The plan identifies Spanish as the most commonly spoken language other than English in Nevada, followed by Tagalog and Chinese, and recommends translating vital forms and outreach materials in those languages.

Armstrong told commissioners the commission already funds training for outreach staff to enhance American Sign Language (ASL) and Spanish language skills; he said staff will report back with details on which courses were funded and will explore coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services programs such as the Commission for Persons Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing and Communication Access Services (both housed in the Aging and Disability Services Division) to expand live‑translation options.

The plan also notes technical measures the commission can use now — including YouTube closed captions and a Google Translate widget on state websites — and recommends publishing clear instructions on agendas for requesting translation or interpretation services.

Vice Chair Wallen said she expects the commission will consult the vice chair and chair before major resource commitments during the legislative session; commissioners discussed possible budget requests to translate vital forms (Armstrong said a prior estimate for translations was roughly $3,000 for a top set of languages) and agreed to consider whether to seek funding in the upcoming budget. Commissioners approved the plan unanimously.