Speech #1040254163

I believe the Rules Committee has been extraordinarily fair and prudent in that minority amendments outnumber majority amendments by a count of 4 to 1. Mr. Speaker. the English Language Empowerment Act of 1996 is designed to empower a new generation of immigrants. This bill declares that English is the official language of the Federal Government. mandates that the Federal Government conduct its business in English. eliminates the Federal bilingual ballot requirement. and requires officials to conduct naturalization ceremonies in English. This bill assures that we have a uniform government policy that does not undercut incentives to learn English and is consistent with established immigration policy that new citizens demonstrate an ability to read. write. and speak English. It is a modest bill which does not restrict. in any way. the use of foreign languages in homes. neighborhoods. churches. or private businesses. The argument will be made that this bill will result in cost savings to the American taxpayer as a result of the termination of documents and services currently provided in different languages.