A recent policy shift has changed the landscape of language access services at the federal level, shifting responsibility to individual agencies and organizations. The new executive order designating English as the official language of the U.S. revokes crucial federal language access guidelines that have protected millions for over two decades and threatening access to vital services across the country. While federal oversight has played a role in the past, the need for effective, reliable language access remains unchanged. Organizations that proactively address these changes will continue to provide essential services efficiently, ensuring seamless communication for individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP).
Inadequate language access has an incredible cost across all industries. Looking at healthcare for example, the total estimated annual cost for the healthcare industry due to language barriers affecting LEP populations could exceed $3 billion to $4 billion annually, along with a higher risk of adverse medical events*. When we look at education, the estimated overall cost of remedial education due to lack of language services across K-12 and higher education could easily exceed $7 billion annually, along with a drop out rate of up to 43%*. This significant impact is consistent across all industries who deal with Limited English Speaking, Non-English Speaking and Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing individuals.
More than 25 million people in the U.S. require language services daily in healthcare, education, legal settings, and government assistance. Clear, accurate communication is not a luxury, it is a critical component of service delivery. Healthcare providers must ensure accurate diagnoses and patient safety. Schools must continue to engage families effectively. Legal and government agencies must maintain accessibility to uphold fairness and compliance. Without structured language services, the risk of miscommunication increases, impacting operations, compliance, and, most importantly, the communities served.
Without federal oversight, hospitals may struggle to provide adequate care, leading to misdiagnoses, medication errors, and preventable deaths when patients are unable to communicate their symptoms. Schools may fail to properly support children whose parents cannot understand critical documents, ultimately widening achievement gaps and leaving vulnerable students behind. Survivors of domestic violence and other crime victims may find themselves unable to explain their circumstances in court, denying them the justice they deserve. In times of emergency, Limited to Non-English speakers may not receive life-saving alerts, not because help isn’t available, but because they don’t understand how to access it.
Despite changes in oversight, legal and regulatory requirements remain in effect. Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, providing language services is not only best practice, it is a legal obligation. Organizations that take proactive steps to strengthen language access programs will not only ensure compliance but also enhance service quality, reduce risk, and improve outcomes for the individuals they serve.
Interpreters Unlimited (IU), a leading Language Service Provider and advocate for equal opportunity and language access, is committed to supporting organizations in adapting to these changes seamlessly. Their expertise in comprehensive language solutions ensures that hospitals, schools, government agencies, and businesses can continue to provide efficient, compliant, and high-quality services to multilingual communities. For over 50 years IU’s language services have been a lifeline for so many, and they plan to continue breaking down communication barriers for all who require them to access essential services daily.
This new executive order may have erased oversight, but it has not erased the need. As a nation built upon the rich tapestry of diverse cultures and languages, the United States thrives on its inclusivity, with over 350 languages spoken across the country, this diversity is a testament to our collective strength. While some may see this as a routine policy shift, the real-world consequences are devastating. This isn’t just a matter of policy, it’s a question of equity, safety, and fundamental rights. Language access is not just a service, it is a human right.
Now is the time to reinforce and expand language access programs. By integrating strong partnerships and proactive strategies with companies like Interpreters Unlimited, organizations can maintain uninterrupted communication and ensure equitable access for all. IU encourages organizations to move forward together to ensure no one is left behind. Now is the time to discuss solutions that keep your organization accessible, compliant, and prepared for the future.
For more information about Interpreters Unlimited, please visit www.interpreters.com or call 800-726-9891.
*Healthcare impact estimates based on industry data, studies, and general cost trends from healthcare systems that work with LEP populations as provided by organizations including the American Hospital Association and the Journal of General Internal Medicine.
*Education impact estimates based on reported statistics about remedial education costs across K-12 and higher education as seen from studies by organizations including NBER, NCSL, NCES and Complete College America.
About Interpreters Unlimited, Inc.
The IU Group of companies include: Interpreters Unlimited, Accessible Communication for the Deaf, Albors & Alnet, Arkansas Spanish Interpreters and Translators, and IU GlobeLink, LLC, and are headquartered in San Diego, California as a minority-owned company. IU Group is committed to providing equal opportunity in the work environment with its diverse team to aid in supplying linguistic and cultural interpretation services to clients nationwide. A combined 70 years in the industry has demonstrated a surplus of leadership and best practices, which has helped establish its respected role in the language services community. Its services include interpretation, document translation and non-emergency medical transportation.
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Media Contact:
Marc Westray
marc.westray@interpreters.com
(800) 726-9891