Immigration

Provides that an accusatory instrument or supporting deposition consisting of factual allegations by a deponent with limited English proficiency is not sufficient unless accompanied by a sworn statement from an interpreter affirming the accuracy of the English interpretation.

This bill amends New York's election law to expand the definition of "language minorities" to include people of Middle Eastern or North African heritage (as defined by federal standards) and Haitian Creole speakers. It directly affects election administration by requiring language assistance services for these groups, alongside existing categories like Spanish speakers and Asian American communities. The key change adds these specific groups to the list used to determine which voters are entitled to translated materials and interpretation services under federal voting rights protections. The bill takes effect one year after enactment.

Requires certain documents and forms to be provided in the twelve most common non-English languages spoken by limited English proficient immigrants of five years or less according to the American community survey, as published by the United States census bureau.

Relates to the determination of damages in a civil action arising from personal injury or wrongful death; provides that damages shall not be reduced because of age, race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, military status, sex, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, familial status, marital status, or status as a victim of domestic violence; provides that damages shall not be based on statistical tables unless agreed to by all parties.