SENATE MEMORIAL 59

52nd legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2015

INTRODUCED BY

Mimi Stewart

A MEMORIAL

REQUESTING THAT THE GOVERNOR ISSUE AN EXECUTIVE ORDER ENSURING ACCESS TO STATE PROGRAMS FOR PERSONS WHO ARE LIMITED ENGLISH- PROFICIENT.

     WHEREAS, New Mexico is one of five majority-minority states with a rich and diverse population, representing various racial and ethnic groups, including emerging Asian, African, Central American and Middle Eastern populations; and

     WHEREAS, eliminating barriers for all New Mexico residents will help end discriminatory practices toward New Mexicans who are limited English-proficient, a goal that has not yet been achieved; and

     WHEREAS, true and equitable access to systems such as health care, law enforcement and social service programs creates a healthier New Mexico community overall; and

     WHEREAS, statewide implementation of limited English- proficiency plans will increase the appropriate use of interpreters and translators, thereby improving access toward equitable and quality services for all New Mexicans; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico has the opportunity to become a national leader in improving access to state services for persons with limited English proficiency; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico affirms its commitment to Title VI of the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964, which protects people from discrimination based on national origin in programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance; and

     WHEREAS, by supporting new arrivals in New Mexico who may have limited English proficiency, the state can contribute toward increased economic development; and

     WHEREAS, former President Bill Clinton recognized the principles of nondiscrimination and inclusion embodied in Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 through his issuance of Executive Order 13166; and

     WHEREAS, Executive Order 13166 required all federal agencies to develop plans to ensure that persons who are limited English-proficient have meaningful access to federal programs and activities;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the governor be encouraged to issue an executive order requiring all state agencies to develop and implement polices and plans to ensure that New Mexico residents who are limited English-proficient have full and meaningful access to state programs and activities; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to the governor.

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