Last year , the Board of Supervisors strengthened the LAO to ensure that City departments are better prepared to serve Limited English Proficient ( LEP ) communities . The amendments lower the thresholds for LEP populations , which will expand the number of required threshold languages . Additionally , the amendments introduce stronger reporting requirements to enhance accountability and improve service delivery . These updates represent a significant step forward in making San Francisco more inclusive and accessible for all .
This past year , we saw significant milestones in language access . City departments reported a record-high number of interactions with LEP clients . Additionally , more than half of Departments increased the amount of funding allocated to language services .
Despite these achievements , challenges persist . The number of certified bilingual staff has continued to decline . This highlights the need for renewed investment in training and certifying bilingual staff to meet the increasing demand .
As Departments prepare to comply with the new requirements of the LAO , OCEIA will continue to provide trainings , best practices , glossaries , and other resources . This year , OCEIA is also launching an updated Department LAO Liaison Resource Library for City employees with additional tools and information to help Departments comply with the new amendments .
Together , we will work to ensure that San Francisco advances language access and that all residents can access the information and services they need .
Jorge Rivas , Jr . Executive Director
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