S P O T L I G H T : V I T A L I N F O R M A T I O N
One key mandate of the LAO is that Departments translate all vital information shared with the public . Understanding what counts as vital is important for complying with the LAO ’ s translation directive .
The LAO addresses the meaning of “ vital information ” in Section 91.5 , “ Translation of Materials and Signage .”
Part ( a ) of Section 91.5 explains as follows :
“ Except as provided in subsection 91.5 ( g ), Departments shall translate the following written materials that provide vital information to the public about the Department ’ s services or programs into the language ( s ) spoken by a Substantial Number of Limited English Speaking persons .” ( See table on next page .)
When training language access liaisons on the core LAO requirements , OCEIA encourages them to think about vital information as covering any Department written materials that affect the rights , benefits , duties , and / or privileges of the public .
Part ( c ) of Section 91.5 gives the following additional guidance :
“ Departments shall prioritize the translation of written materials by giving highest priority to materials that affect public safety and critical
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San Francisco Administrative Code , Sec . 91.5 .
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