About Poll Site Language Assistance

Final Methodology for Poll Site Language Assistance Program

In compliance with the NYC Charter deadline, the New York City Civic Engagement Commission (NYCCEC) is posting the Methodology for the Poll Site Language Assistance Program, which provides interpretation services at poll sites. The methodology outlines the process for identifying program eligible languages and poll sites in which interpretation services will be offered. The methodology will be used to deliver interpretation services in November 2020 for the general election and all general, primary, and special elections going forward. The NYCCEC will also review the data annually, and update the methodology on or before September 1, 2022, and at least every five years thereafter. The language assistance provided through this Program will supplement the language assistance already provided by the NYC Board of Elections.

The NYCCEC accepted public comments until March 1, 2020; it also held a public hearing on February 18, 2020. The recording and transcript of the February 18, 2020 hearing is available on the NYCCEC website. While this methodology integrates responses to public comments, an additional Frequently Asked Question document also summarizes key comments received and the NYCCEC's responses.
Methodology - Poll Site Language Assistance Program
Methodology - Poll Site Language Assistance Program (Word Accessible Version)
FAQ: Methodology - Poll Site Language Assistance Program
FAQ: Methodology - Poll Site Language Assistance Program (Word Accessible Version)
Final Methodology Procedures Amendment (as amended) - 6-1-2021
Revised Poll Site Methodology
Revised Poll Site Methodology (Word Accessible Version)

Proposed Changes to Methodology

The Civic Engagement Commission is proposing revisions to our methodology for providing language assistance at poll sites. You can read more in this proposed amendment to our final Methodology Procedures Amendment. We will be posting more information about our upcoming public hearing to gather community members' feedback on this proposal.
Methodology - Poll Site Language Assistance Program
Methodology - Poll Site Language Assistance Program (Word Accessible Version)

Final Rule Establishing Standards for Interpreter Conduct and Training

Per Chapter 76 of the NYC Charter, the NYC Civic Engagement Commission established minimum standards for interpreter* training and conduct for the City's Poll Site Language Assistance Program. This rule requires that interpreters be fluent in English and the language to be served. Interpreters are also required to comply with all lawful orders from the staff of the New York City Board of Elections, observe the prohibition on electioneering, and ensure voter privacy.
Final Rule for Standard on Interpreter Conduct and Training
Final Rule Certification

*Interpreter: someone whose job is to translate information from one language into a second language.