Language Access Plan Submission Deadline:
Per , each agency was given 120 days from the Bulletin's effective date of August 1, 2010 to submit its Language Access Plan. Pursuant to this Administrative Notice, each agency covered by ANF , will have an additional 45 days to submit its Language Access Plan (LAP). Each agency should submit its LAP no later than January 15, 2011. Notwithstanding this extension in time, agencies should endeavor to submit its LAP as soon as is practical.
Clarification of Scope of ANF Administrative Bulletin #16
ANF applies to the direct operations of executive branch agencies and does not extend language access requirements to vendors of such agencies. However, in communications sent to executive branch agency personnel, the Office of Access and Opportunity has tried to make clear that any executive branch agency that is a recipient of federal financial assistance, federal statutory and/or regulatory directives impose language access requirements on both the agency and its vendors. The federal agency that provides such financial assistance is the best source to consult regarding federal language access requirements.
Clarification of Scope of Language Access Plans
Any executive branch agency that has prepared a language access plan in response to federal requirements does not have to prepare a second plan in response to ANF . Any such agency should submit its federal language access plan and a cover memorandum or letter in response to ANF . Please note that whether submitting a copy of the federal plan or a state plan pursuant to ANF , the Plan should identify and include the complaint process pursuant to ANF .
Agency Websites
Executive branch agencies need not include information regarding the translation of information contained on their agency websites as part of the submission of language access plans. An additional Administrative Notice, which will provide guidance and information on website content, will be issued sometime in 2011.
Additional Guidance and Questions
From time to time, additional notices may be issued to ensure clarity regarding the Language Access Guidelines and their implementation.
Any questions regarding the information contained in this Administrative Notice should be directed to Ron Marlow, Assistant Secretary for Access and Opportunity, in the Executive Office for Administration and Finance.