The bill would make English the official language of the United States and require federal government functions to be conducted in English. It lists exceptions, including language teaching, some public health and safety communications, census work, and actions related to national security, trade, or crime victims. It would require naturalization ceremonies to be in English and direct the Homeland Security Secretary to propose a uniform English test rule for naturalization candidates within 180 days of enactment. The changes would take effect 180 days after enactment. The bill has been introduced and referred to a Senate committee.
Federal laws, public proceedings, regulations, publications, programs, and policies would generally be conducted in English, subject to the bill's exceptions. A person injured by a violation could seek relief in court. The bill also says it does not bar learning or using other languages or the preservation and use of Native American and Native Alaskan languages.
No publicly available information.
The bill's findings say English has served as a common bond among people from different backgrounds and state that people should be able to understand key English-language texts, including the Constitution and federal laws.
No publicly available information.