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CCRPC committee endorses revised Language Access Plan, allows translation tools for informal use
Summary
Committee members recommended the updated Draft Language Access Plan to the Board for July approval; revisions include streamlined language, a staff tracking form, expanded interpreter guidance, and limited use of Google Translate for brief informal communications while retaining professional interpretation for substantive matters.
A.N. Stoner presented revisions to CCRPC’s Draft Language Access Plan at the June 3 meeting and the Executive/Finance Committee voted to recommend the revised plan to the Board for approval in July.
Stoner said the updated plan removes repetitive language, adds a staff tracking form to document language access service usage, and expands guidance for working with interpreters (including sharing acronyms and technical terminology in advance). The plan clarifies that appendices are for internal staff use and may be updated administratively without Board approval, and it acknowledges potential future evaluation of AI-powered language tools.
The revisions permit the use of tools such as Google Translate for brief informal communications but maintain the requirement to use professional interpretation services for substantive communications. Staff said the revised plan is intended for Board consideration at the July meeting. A. Montroll moved to recommend the Draft Language Access Plan to the Board for its July 15 meeting; J. Murphy seconded and the motion passed unanimously.
