Local government: emergency response services: use of languages other than English

Local emergency notices must reach more residents with limited English proficiency in languages that individually represent a meaningful share of that population.

What the law does ​

• Requires cities, counties, and their departments to translate emergency information when at least 5% of people in their jurisdiction speak English less than “very well.”
• Requires translations in each language spoken by at least 5% of the jurisdiction’s residents who speak English less than “very well.”
• Requires agencies to use American Community Survey data or equally reliable data, and reassess qualifying languages every five years.
• Requires translated information to be as comprehensive, actionable, and timely as English-language information.
• Requires the Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation, beginning January 1, 2027, to survey a sample of local agencies every three years and report compliance findings to the Legislature.

Who it affects ​

• Cities, counties, cities and counties, and their departments that provide police, fire, or emergency medical services.
• Residents who speak English less than “very well,” particularly speakers of qualifying languages.

Context ​

The urgency law took effect immediately and does not limit local agencies from adopting broader translation standards.