HB 2083 Summary

• Declares English as the official language of Oklahoma and creates the Oklahoma Official English Language Implementation Act to implement this requirement.

• Requires state government to preserve and enhance English as the official language by using English in official actions and avoiding other languages unless specifically required by federal or state law or the Oklahoma Constitution.

• Defines what actions "preserve and enhance" versus "diminish or ignore" English as the official language, including presumptions that taking actions in English only, teaching English to non-fluent speakers, and not mandating private bilingual services help preserve English.

• Mandates state agencies using non-English languages to publicly notify the Governor and Attorney General, disclose which constitutional or statutory provisions require such use, and include separate budget line items detailing costs for interpreters, translations, employee language training, and related expenses.

• Takes effect November 1, 2011 and does not create any cause of action or legal right for individuals to demand government services in languages other than English.