President Trump’s 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 threatens access to vital services across the country. This has changed the landscape for language access services at the federal level, shifting responsibility to individual agencies and organizations.
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.
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 could exceed $3 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 dropout rate of up to 43%.
This significant impact is consistent across all industries that deal with limited English speaking, non-English speaking and deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals. In fact, 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 tor 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, a San Diego-based language service provider and advocate for equal opportunity and language access, is committed to supporting organizations in adapting to these changes seamlessly. Our 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 our language services have been a lifeline for so many, and we plan to continue breaking down communication barriers for all who require them to access essential services daily.
Trump’s 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. In fact, this diversity is a testament to our collective strength.
While some may see this Trump’s order 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. We encourage organizations to move forward together to ensure no one is left behind.
Now is the time to discuss solutions that keep organizations accessible, compliant, and prepared for the future.
Shamus Sayed is the chief operating officer of Interpreters Unlimited, a San Diego-based language service provider and advocate for equal opportunity and language access.
