official english legislation

[Frank Abate]

One other point re the value of good knowledge of English in this country --
reading and filling out a job application, as well as many other forms and
applications that people are asked to deal with in the course of everyday
living, many of which are not available in another language.

Also, it seems to me that the language of the proposed legislation regarding
naturalization is pretty soft -- "should be able
to read and understand generally the English language text of the
Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Laws of the United
States made in pursuance of the Constitution." (per the original posting)

I think the whole "official English" effort is largely symbolic.  In
addition, this is merely a proposed bill, very far still from being a law.
I'd give it narrow odds of even making it out of committee.

I am not addressing here the motives of some who back such legislation,
merely pointing out that there are other reasons less pernicious for such
efforts.

Frank Abate