Aquí, se habla inglés – English spoken here! SQ 751

August 19th, 2010

Many official forms and documents are not only printed in English, but also in Spanish and other languages. Several states have decided that it is too expensive to translate things to other languages and are looking to establish a language in which to conduct official business. Even though America is made up of all different cultures, English is the predominant language and has been the de facto official language in the US. Now, some states are trying to make English the official language in which to conduct business.

Oklahoma’s State Question 751, on the ballot for November 2, brings that decision to the people. Nothing in this says that people should only speak English, or that a translator can’t be used, but that for the purposes of conducting official business, English is the only language in which forms, documents and services must be provided. I fully support this measure and I urge you to also vote Yes on SQ 751.

STATE QUESTION NO. 751

LEGISLATIVE REFERENDUM NO. 351

This measure amends the State Constitution. It adds a new Article to the Constitution. That Article deals with the State’s official actions. It dictates the language to be used in taking official State action. It requires that official State actions be in English. Native American languages could also be used. When Federal law requires, other languages could also be used.

These language requirements apply to the State’s “official actions.” The term “official actions” is not defined. The legislature could pass laws determining the application of the language requirements. The Legislature would also pass laws implementing and enforcing the language requirements.

No lawsuit based on State law could be brought on the basis of a State agency’s failure to use a language other than English. Nor could such a lawsuit be brought against political subdivisions of the State.