Does the DC Language Access Act apply to federal government agencies/offices?
The DC Language Access Act is a local law which applies solely to District government agencies, and in most cases, contractors and outside entities that receive funds from District government agencies covered by the Act. However, the Language Access Act mirrors Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. Title VI prohibits federal agencies (and all entities that receive federal funding) from discriminating against persons based on their race and/or national origin. National origin discrimination under Title VI has been interpreted by the federal government in some cases to include discrimination on the basis of language. Thus, Title VI requires federal agencies and federally funded entities to provide LEP individuals meaningful access to their programs, services, and activities. The District of Columbia government is covered by both Title VI and the DC Language Access Act. For more information on federal guidelines for recipients of federal funds as it pertains to Title VI, p
