The Lanterman Act defines “native language” as the language that you normally use or prefer. “Native Language” also includes the language that your parent, legal guardian, conservator, or authorized representative uses or prefers. For example, if you don’t speak English well and you normally speak Spanish, your native language is Spanish. [1]Cal. Welf. & Inst. Code section 4512 (m).
Another example: Your child is a client of the regional center but is either a minor or an adult conserved by you, and you need information in Spanish. The regional center must say what your native language is (Spanish) in the IPP. [2]Cal. Welf. & Inst. Code section 4646(j)(3).