(DENVER) — Coloradans visiting Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) workforce centers and vocational rehabilitation centers can access free, on-demand American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting services through a new state pilot program using Aira ASL. The free service will be available through July 31, 2025 after which, continuation of the Aira ASL program will depend on feedback and usage.
Aira ASL is a digital tool to help deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals access in-person services instantly by connecting with a professional ASL interpreter via the free app available in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Users simply download the app, tap a button, and are connected to a professional human ASL interpreter who facilitates communication using the caller’s phone camera and audio.
Aira ASL is currently being piloted at all 32 Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) locations and 46 Workforce Centers. Through the Governor’s Office of Information Technology’s (OIT) Technology Accessibility Program (TAP), the state provides free 30-minute Aira ASL sessions that Coloradans can leverage for additional sessions if needed. Calls to Aira ASL are secure, on-demand, and available with no advance reservations.
"When I worked in vocational rehabilitation, we dreamed of tools like this—innovations that could break down communication barriers instantly and open doors to opportunity,” said Lt. Governor Dianne Primavera. “This pilot isn’t just about technology—it’s about equity and accessibility. This pilot is a smart, forward-thinking solution that makes our workforce and vocational services more inclusive, and I’m proud to see Colorado leading the way in using innovation to make government work for everyone.”
ASL is the third-most spoken language in the United States. The addition of Aira ASL access is further strengthening efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable Colorado for All. An Aira ASL promotional video showcases how the app can be incorporated when visiting a workforce center, demonstrating how deaf or hard-of-hearing customers receive services during their appointment.
“Ensuring all Coloradans have equal access to employment services, regardless of ability, is a key component of our mission to ensure every Coloradan has the opportunity to thrive and prosper,” said CDLE Executive Director Joe Barela. “This innovative pilot program is a big step forward in supporting deaf or hard-of-hearing Coloradans navigate our statewide career development services.”
In addition to the Aira ASL app, Aira also has a visual interpreting app for the blind and low-vision community, called Aira Explorer. Since 2023, the State of Colorado has offered Coloradans access to Aira Explorer, which provides access to visual interpreters when navigating state-operated locations, including state parks, as well as digital services.
"In Colorado, we believe that a best-in-class digital government ecosystem can expand opportunities for Coloradans and remove barriers to receiving essential state services," said OIT Chief Information Officer & Executive Director David Edinger. "The partnership between OIT and the CDLE to offer Aira ASL services is transforming the way people who are deaf or hard-of-hearing access government services, and is one way the state is ensuring accessibility for all."
Like all apps that depend on video, a solid cellular connection is required to fully take advantage of Aira services in more remote locations. Because Aira ASL relies on streaming video, users should plan to ensure their devices are fully charged and consider bringing a backup power source to prepare for extended connectivity.
Learn more about how to access and use Aira ASL at oit.colorado.gov/accessibility/aira-asl. Download the app from your mobile device and let your friends and family know about this beneficial service.
About the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment
The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment’s (CDLE) vision is to create a working economy that elevates all of Colorado. In pursuit of this vision, the 1,800-person state agency’s seven divisions and four offices help the state’s employers and workers prosper: employers benefit from CDLE’s work to improve Colorado’s talent pipeline, its recruitment assistance, its economic updates, and more. The agency helps workers with and without disabilities pursue their career goals through job training, job search assistance, and career counseling. CDLE works to help workers, employers, and communities thrive by ensuring fair labor practices, providing unemployment and paid family and medical leave insurance, and protecting Colorado communities through consumer protection and safety programs. CDLE is primarily funded through federal and cash funds. Factors that influence its work and funding include federal legislation, budgets, and the state’s economic health.
About the Governor’s Office of Information Technology
The Colorado Governor's Office of Information Technology (OIT) is a dynamic organization responsible for the operation and delivery of information and communications technology services and driving innovation across Executive Branch agencies in the State of Colorado. OIT delivers smart technology solutions, provides quality customer service, and supports state agencies whose missions are critical to serving Coloradans. OIT oversees technology initiatives at the state level and recommends strategies to maximize efficiencies and offer cost-effective services through the application of enterprise technology solutions. The Office’s enterprise approach also enables the agile delivery of new applications to state agencies that improve the overall customer experience and access to government services while increasing accountability and transparency.
OIT is home to the Information Security Office, Colorado Broadband Office and Colorado Digital Service. OIT also manages myColorado™, the State of Colorado’s official mobile app™, providing secure and convenient access to state services anytime, anywhere. The app’s signature feature, Colorado Digital ID™, enables residents to create an electronic version of their Colorado driver license or state identification (ID) card. The Digital ID can be displayed on a smartphone for proof of identification, age, and address within Colorado. The myColorado app can be downloaded from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Visit myColorado.gov to learn more.
Find OIT online at Colorado.gov/OIT, and on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.
About Aira
Aira’s assistive technology enhances the independence and accessibility of people who are blind or low-vision, or deaf or hard of hearing. By providing instant information anytime, anywhere, Aira empowers users to navigate the world confidently.
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