AB 1242: Language access.

The bill aims to improve language access for non-English speaking individuals in California state agencies. It requires agencies to conduct regular assessments to determine the language needs of their clients and develop plans to address any deficiencies. These plans must be based on data from the most recent census and surveys. The California Health and Human Services Agency must designate a language access director to oversee the implementation of language access plans across the agency. The director must engage with communities with limited English proficiency and deaf and hard of hearing communities to expand access to government programs and services. Agencies must also develop and allocate funds for language access plans, and report their progress to the department of human resources.