The Iowa Supreme Court has issued two orders addressing the Language Access in the Courts Advisory Committee, including new appointments and updated reporting requirements that reflect the evolving needs of Iowa’s judicial system.
Originally established in 2017, at the recommendation of the Iowa Access to Justice Commission, the advisory committee plays a key role in guiding language access policies and supporting the Iowa Judicial Branch’s Language Access Services Office. Its work helps ensure meaningful access to court services for individuals with limited English proficiency.
Updated reporting requirements
In its April 2 order, the court clarified the committee’s reporting responsibilities. Moving forward, the advisory committee will continue submitting the Language Access Services Office’s comprehensive annual report by June 1 each year.
This report, first introduced in 2022, provides a detailed, data-driven overview of language access efforts, including year-over-year trends, interpreter usage and compensation, certification and testing updates, and key accomplishments. The committee may also submit additional recommendations or reports to the court, the state court administrator, or the director of the Language Access Services Office as needed.
New appointments announced
In a separate order, the court announced appointments and reappointments to the advisory committee for three-year terms running from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2028:
- Hon. Ashley Sparks, Nevada (Co-Chair)
- Hon. Jessica Noll, Sioux City (reappointment)
- Sue Gudenkauf, Cascade (reappointment)
- Haley Huddleston, Iowa City
- Toni Stevens, Des Moines
- Sandi Tibbetts Murphy, Iowa City (replacing Lorraine Gaynor)
The court also amended its original 2017 order to remove the requirement that the Director of the Office of Professional Regulation, or a designee, serve on the committee.
These updates underscore the Iowa Judicial Branch’s continued commitment to improving language access services and ensuring that all Iowans can effectively engage with the court system.
View Order
View Appointments Order
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