Enacts GS 143B-28.2 requiring each principal department under GS Chapters 143A and 143B to submit the language in a publication to the Department of Administration (Department) for translation at the time of publishing if the information pertains to state services or resources under the department’s authority. Requires the principal department to publish the translated information in the same format it publishes the information in English.

Enacts GS 143B-370.2 requiring the Department to contract with a certified translation service to translate information regarding state services or resources under each principal department’s authority, as submitted to the Department. Mandates that the contract ensure the language translations will include the five most common non-English languages spoken in the homes of residents in NC, according to the most recent US Census Bureau, American Community Survey (Survey). Details procedural requirements for the Department concerning timely translation. Clarifies that if one of the five most common non-English languages is designated as "Chinese" on the Survey, the information will be translated into Mandarin. Permits public request of a Cantonese language translation to the Department, which the Department must provide if requested. Allows the Department to convert contractual translation services to permanent state translator positions if the Director determines it is more cost-effective, after consultation with the Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations.

Appropriates $5,487,767 in recurring funds for 2025-26 from the General Fund to the Department of Administration to implement the requirements of this act. Effective July 1, 2025.

The remainder of this act is effective when it becomes law, and the provision of translated information applies beginning January 1, 2027.