(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 to customers at those CDLE locations. 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.