S 1990 Massachusetts Senate · 193rd Legislature (2023-2024)

An Act relative to language access and inclusion

This bill establishes a new chapter in Massachusetts law dedicated to language access and inclusion for state agencies. It creates a legal framework requiring agencies to provide equal access to public services for individuals who do not speak English as their primary language. The legislation mandates that agencies develop formal language access plans to outline how they will offer translation and interpretation services. Additionally, the bill defines key terms such as "limited English proficient" and "culturally competent" to guide how state departments interact with diverse populations.
Bill status passed 3 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2023
Committee Review
Oct 2023
House Passage
Feb 2023
Governor
Introduced Feb 16, 2023 Last action Oct 30, 2023
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the House. No roll call record of that vote is available.
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
4
Key actions
2
Committee
2
Oct 30, 2023
Upper · Passed
Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means
upper
Feb 16, 2023
Lower · Passed
House concurred
lower
Feb 16, 2023
Committee
Referred to the committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight
upper
1 primary · 25 co-sponsors

Sponsors