HB0347 Cooper, Bonnie Sue

P R E F I L E D

HB 347 -- Official Language

This bill establishes English as the common language and the language of official public documents, records and of public meetings. The bill provides for exceptions to the use of English in safety, health, or emergencies and in the case of expert testimony, witnesses, instruction, or international activities. Agencies, departments, or office budgets will delineate as a separate line item any cost associated with preparation, translation, printing, or recording of any documents in languages other than English.

The bill will not infringe upon the rights of citizens to use any language in private activities nor will it restrict any private sector business operation other than official documents or communications with government which will be in English.

Under the bill no person will be denied employment with the state or any political subdivision solely on the lack of foreign language skills, except where such skills are necessary for the job. The bill grants citizens the right to bring action in the circuit courts against the state to enforce these provisions.