Designation of English as the Official Language of the United States Act of 2025
This bill would designate English as the official language of the United States and create a uniform English-language rule for naturalization. It would require that federal government functions be conducted in English (with specified exceptions), establish an English-focused standard for naturalization testing and ceremonies, and add general construction rules to ensure laws are interpreted in a way that preserves rights and state powers. The bill directs the Department of Homeland Security to develop regulations for a uniform English-language testing standard for naturalization within 180 days of enactment. It also creates a process for civil action if the provisions are violated and would take effect 180 days after enactment. The measure includes findings referring to a diversity of languages and notes support from a prior executive order. In short, if enacted, the bill would codify English as the official language for federal government operations, shape how naturalization is conducted (emphasizing English proficiency), and influence how English-language texts of U.S. laws are constructed and interpreted.
Key Points
- 1Official designation of English: English would be the official language of the United States, with the federal government required to preserve and enhance the role of English and to promote English-language learning.
- 2Official government functions in English: All official federal government functions would be conducted in English, with specific exceptions for areas such as national security, public health and safety, certain legal rights protections, census work, and other enumerated categories.
- 3Uniform naturalization rules: All naturalization ceremonies would be conducted in English, and there would be a uniform standard for testing English-language ability so that newly naturalized citizens can read and understand core federal texts (e.g., the Declaration, Constitution, and laws enacted under the Constitution).
- 4General rules of construction for laws in English: New rules would be added to guide how English texts of laws are interpreted, including presumptively aligning workplace policies with U.S. law and guiding ambiguity resolution to avoid weakening rights or state powers.
- 5Implementation and effective date: The Department of Homeland Security would propose implementing regulations within 180 days, and the changes to sections on federal functions and construction would take effect 180 days after enactment.