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GA SR675

Resolution

Status

Engrossed

2/29/2016

Primary Sponsor

Joshua McKoon

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2015-2016 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Proposes a constitutional amendment to enshrine English as the official language of Georgia, elevating the existing 1996 statutory designation to constitutional status by adding a new Paragraph X to Article I, Section II
  • 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 any state or local law or policy from penalizing or limiting opportunities for persons solely because they speak only English
  • Provides nine exceptions allowing use of other languages, including protecting public health or safety, teaching languages, complying with federal law, protecting crime victims' and defendants' rights, ensuring court access, and promoting trade, commerce, and tourism
  • 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 the amendment to be submitted to voters for ratification

Legislative Description

State of Georgia; English as official language -CA

Last Action

House Second Readers

3/7/2016

Full Bill Text

No bill text available