Title
Title
Language Access Plan | Recommended Guidelines and Minimum Specifications for Video Remote Interpreting for Spoken Language-Interpreted Events (Action Required)
body
Summary
Summary
The Information Technology Advisory Committee (ITAC) and the Advisory Committee on Providing Access and Fairness recommend approving the Recommended Guidelines and Minimum Specifications for Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) for Spoken Language-Interpreted Events, updated under the direction of an ITAC working group following a revision process that included public comment. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, courts have implemented remote video solutions to ensure access to justice and protect the health and safety of court staff, court users, and judicial officers. The VRI guidelines for spoken language have been updated to support VRI in both physical and virtual courtrooms and to provide guidance to courts and the public to ensure that remote interpreting allows limited English proficient court users to fully and meaningfully participate in court proceedings.
body
Recommendation
Recommendation
The Information Technology Advisory Committee and Advisory Committee on Providing Access and Fairness recommend that the Judicial Council, effective May 21, 2021:
1. Approve the Recommended Guidelines and Minimum Specifications for Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) for Spoken Language-Interpreted Events, which provide guidance for courts and the public on use of VRI in both physical and virtual courtrooms and include practical steps to support successful VRI for spoken language; and
2. Direct Language Access Services staff to:
a. Regularly report on the progress of VRI usage and the need for refinement of the VRI guidelines; and
b. Identify funding needs for VRI.