Senate Vote: Official English Amendment
Summary: Denies individuals the right to receive services or materials from federal agencies in languages other than English
Result: Amendment Adopted
A vote against the amendment was counted as a + vote (in line with LCCR's position)
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Bill Name: Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007
Bill Number: S. 1348
Issue: Immigration
Date: 06/07/07
Roll Call No. 198
During consideration of S. 1348, the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act of 2007, Sen. Jim Inhofe, R. Okla., offered an amendment declaring that, unless required by law, no individual would have a right to demand services or materials from federal agencies in any language other than English.
LCCR opposed the Inhofe amendment.
While it would not have expressly prohibited federal agencies from voluntarily providing bilingual services or materials, it would likely discourage them from doing so. This could have troubling consequences, when, for instance, the federal government tries to convey important public safety and health information.
In addition to practical concerns, the Inhofe amendment would do nothing to advance the worthwhile goal of encouraging the greater use of English. The proper way to advance this goal is to provide more opportunities, through additional ESL classes and resources, for new immigrants to learn the language.
Result: The Senate agreed to the Inhofe amendment (64-33).
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