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Designation of English as the Official Language of the United States Act of 2025

3/20/2025, 3:23 AM

Summary of Bill HR 1772

Bill 119 hr 1772, also known as the Official English Act, aims to declare English as the official language of the United States. The bill seeks to establish a uniform English language rule for naturalization, ensuring that individuals seeking to become citizens are proficient in English. Additionally, the bill aims to prevent any misconstructions of the English language texts of the laws of the United States.

The rationale behind this bill is rooted in Congress' powers to provide for the general welfare of the United States and to establish a uniform rule of naturalization under article I, section 8, of the Constitution. Proponents of the bill argue that having English as the official language will promote unity and communication among citizens, as well as facilitate integration and assimilation of immigrants into American society.

Critics of the bill, however, raise concerns about potential discrimination against non-English speakers and the impact on linguistic diversity in the country. They argue that mandating English proficiency for naturalization may create barriers for immigrants, particularly those from non-English speaking countries. Overall, the Official English Act is a controversial piece of legislation that touches on issues of language, identity, and immigration in the United States. It remains to be seen how this bill will be received and whether it will ultimately become law.

Congressional Summary of HR 1772

Designation of English as the Official Language of the United States Act of 2025

This bill establishes English as the official language of the United States.

The bill specifies that the official functions of government in the United States, including in each state and the District of Columbia, shall be conducted in English. Exceptions to this requirement include (1) actions or documents to protect the public health or safety, (2) actions or documents that protect the rights of victims of crimes or criminal defendants, and (3) requirements under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

The bill also establishes a framework for implementation and enforcement, including by testing English language ability as part of the naturalization process.

Current Status of Bill HR 1772

Bill HR 1772 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since March 3, 2025. Bill HR 1772 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on March 3, 2025.  Bill HR 1772's most recent activity was Referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. as of March 3, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1772

Total Number of Sponsors
3
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
3
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
10
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
10
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1772

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1772

To declare English as the official language of the United States, to establish a uniform English language rule for naturalization, and to avoid misconstructions of the English language texts of the laws of the United States, pursuant to Congress' powers to provide for the general welfare of the United States and to establish a uniform rule of naturalization under article I, section 8, of the Constitution.
To declare English as the official language of the United States, to establish a uniform English language rule for naturalization, and to avoid misconstructions of the English language texts of the laws of the United States, pursuant to Congress' powers to provide for the general welfare of the United States and to establish a uniform rule of naturalization under article I, section 8, of the Constitution.

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