County Executive Bellone Signs Executive Order Ensuring Language Access for All Suffolk County Residents; Advocates Praise Executive Order that Aligns Suffolk County with Policies Implemented by Governor Cuomo.

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone has signed an Executive Order guaranteeing language translation and interpretation services to all limited-English proficient (LEP) residents in their interactions with County Government.

County Executive Bellone noted that ensuring all residents are able to communicate with government has been highlighted by the necessity of sharing vital public safety information related to Super storm Sandy, including the approximately 120,000 county residents with limited ability to read, write, or speak English.

“Suffolk County government is here to serve all our residents,” said Suffolk County Executive Bellone. “Super storm Sandy highlights the need to have a government where all residents have equal access to both vital public safety information and programs and services. We have drawn lessons from Governor Cuomo who has successfully implemented this policy statewide.”

In the past, the lack of interpretation and translation services in Suffolk County has prevented LEP residents from obtaining vital information and services in times of crisis. Improved language access services will ensure that residents can communicate with authorities during emergencies like Sandy and that residents report crimes like domestic violence without fear of not being understood at police precincts.

Based on census data, the services will be provided in Italian, Chinese, Spanish, Polish, French Creole, and Portuguese.

Further information on this Executive Order may be obtained on the Long Island Exchange website.

See Also

• Language translation services are essential in many communities throughout the United States
  An accurate professional translation can save a patient's life, win a bid, or persuade a shopper to buy your product.
• Access to language interpretation services could save lives in an emergency situation
  Language Interpreting is the process of translating spoken words from one language into another.
• County Executive Bellone Signs Executive Order Ensuring Language Access for All Suffolk County Residents The complete Long Island Exchange press release
  (Hauppauge, N.Y.) - Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone signed an Executive Order guaranteeing translation and interpretation services to all limited-English proficient (LEP) residents in their interactions with County Government.
• More about Suffolk County Government
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