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OK SB522
Bill
Status
2/2/2015
Primary Sponsor
Ralph Shortey
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AI Summary
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Declares English the official language of Oklahoma and creates the "Oklahoma Official English Language Implementation Act" to preserve and enhance its role in state government.
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Prohibits state agencies from making, implementing, or enforcing laws or policies that diminish or ignore English as the official language, except when specifically required by federal or state law or the Oklahoma Constitution.
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Requires state agencies using languages other than English to notify the Governor and Attorney General of the constitutional or statutory provision requiring such use, with annual notification for continuing requirements.
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Mandates separate budget delineations for all costs associated with non-English language services, including interpreter fees, employee training, document translation, and wage differentials for multilingual employees.
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Specifies that the act creates no new legal rights or causes of action for individuals to demand governmental services in languages other than English; acknowledges exceptions for Native American languages and private communications as permitted by the Oklahoma Constitution.
Legislative Description
Immigration; use of English language. Effective date.
Last Action
Second Reading referred to Rules Committee then to Appropriations Committee
2/3/2015