10.19.22 OUTBoard Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Determining the Language Needs of the Population to be Served by the agency is responsible for assessing the needs of the population to be served. Such assessment will include, but not be limited to the following: • The non-English languages that are likely to be encountered in its program will be identified. • An estimate of the number of people in the community for who English is not the primary language used for communication will be completed and updated annually. To identify the languages and number of LEP individuals local entities should review: o Census, school, and ridership data o Reports from federal, state, and local governments o Community agencies' information The points of contact in the program or activity where language assistance is likely to be needed will be identified. Determining the Language Needs of Each Applicant/Recipient The agency will determine the language needs of each applicant/recipient. Such assessment will include, but not be limited to the following: • At the first point of contact, each applicant/recipient will be assessed to determine the individual's primary language. Check all methods that will be used: • Multi-language identification cards, a poster-size language list, or the use of "I speak" peel-off language identification cards for indicating preferred languages • English proficiency assessment tools, provided they can be administered in a manner that is sensitive to and respectful of individual dignity and privacy • If the LEP person does not speak or read any of these languages, the agency will use a telephone interpreting service to identify the client's primary language • Staff will not solely rely on their own assessment of the applicant or recipient's English proficiency in determining the need for an interpreter. If an individual requests an interpreter, an interpreter will be provided free of charge. A declaration of the client will be used to establish the client's primary language. • When staff place or receive a telephone call and cannot determine what language the other person on the line is speaking, a telephone interpreting service will be utilized in making the determination. If any applicant/recipient is assessed as LEP, they will be informed of interpreter availability and their right to have a language interpreter at no cost to them with a notice in writing in the languages identified in Section C. Provisions of Written Translations. Provision of Bilingual/Interpretive Services The agency will ensure that effective bilingual/interpretive services are provided to serve the needs of the non- English speaking population. The provision of bilingual/interpretive services will be prompt without undue delays. In most circumstances, this requires language services to be available during all operating hours. This requirement will be met by: Orange County Transportation Service will utilize paid interpreter, qualified bilingual employees, and qualified employees of other agencies. The agency will provide language assistance at all level of interaction with LEP individuals, including telephone interactions. Describe how this requirement will be met: Orange County Transportation Service will utilize paid interpreters, qualified bilingual employees, and qualified employees of other agencies.