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Supporters tell Senate panel SB 11 87 balances language-access aims with local cost concerns
Summary
Supporters including the California State Association of Counties and the California Municipal Clerks Association told the Senate Local Government Committee that amended SB 11 87 removes prescriptive language-access mandates while preserving local ability to provide services such as translation and live interpretation.
At the Senate Local Government Committee hearing on SB 11 87, witnesses for local government groups urged the committee to concur in the Assembly amendments, describing the changes as a compromise that preserves local flexibility.
Eric Loyer, senior legislative advocate for government finance and administration with the California State Association of Counties, told the committee SB 11 87 "is a direct response to concerns raised by language-access advocates removing prescriptive standards, mandates, formulas, and other directive language for local agencies." He emphasized that "nothing in this bill prohibits local agencies from improving language accessibility at public meetings," and asked members for a "high vote."
Ethan Hager, speaking for the California Municipal Clerks Association and the Marin County Council of Mayors and Council Members, also voiced support and thanked the committee. Proponents repeatedly framed the amendments as an attempt to balance the aims of improved access with practical cost considerations facing cities and counties.
No witnesses on record opposed the bill at this hearing.
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