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GA SR1031

Resolution

Status

Introduced

2/21/2014

Primary Sponsor

Don Balfour

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2013-2014 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Proposes a constitutional amendment to declare English the official language of the State of Georgia, adding a new Paragraph X to Article I, Section II of the Georgia Constitution
  • Requires all official state actions, documents, regulations, orders, transactions, proceedings, meetings, programs, and publications to be conducted in English, specifically including driver's license examinations administered by the Department of Driver Services
  • Prohibits discrimination, penalties, or limits on participation against persons who speak only English in state programs, benefits, opportunities, and employment
  • Provides 9 exceptions allowing use of other languages, including for public health or safety, teaching languages or English, American Sign Language, compliance with federal law, protecting crime victims' and defendants' rights, court access, trade and tourism, and customary foreign-language terms
  • Grants any Georgia resident or business standing to sue state agencies or officials for violations, with prevailing parties entitled to recover costs and reasonable attorney fees, and requires submission of the amendment to voters for ratification

Legislative Description

State of Georgia; English as official language -CA

Last Action

Senate Read Second Time

2/26/2014

Full Bill Text

No bill text available