Language Assistance
Compensation for Second Language – This is a legislative act that was passed in 2001. This legislation allows for a 10 percent pay increase to any employee whose specific job assignment requires the skill to communicate in a language other than English, including American Sign Language, and which skill is required as a secondary minimum qualification by the classification specification for the position occupied by the employee. OMHHD assisted in developing policy for the Department of Health to guide managers in utilizing this legislation.
Limited English Proficiency (LEP) – The LEP Program is based directly on Federal Guidance that states: Individuals who do not speak English as their primary language and who have a limited ability to read, speak, write or understand English can be Limited English Proficient, or “LEP.” These individuals may be entitled to language assistance with respect to a particular type of service, benefit or encounter. Policies – Providing meaningful access to LEP persons will ensure that ADH and LEP beneficiaries can communicate effectively and act appropriately based on that communication. Therefore ADH should take reasonable steps to:
- Ensure that LEP persons are given appropriate and adequate information,
- Ensure that LEP persons are able to understand that information and
- Ensure that LEP persons are able to participate effectively in ADH programs and/or activities, where appropriate.
To assist in the above process, OMHHD has provided each Local Health Unit two sets of “I Speak” cards. These are identification cards that allow LEP beneficiaries to identify their language needs to staff and for staff to identify the language needs of clients. The “I Speak” cards invite the LEP person to identify the language he/she speaks. The policy became effective, Oct. 23, 2007.
