A Wisconsin lawmaker wants to make English the official language of the state.
The proposal from state Representative Andre Jacque (R-De Pere) would require state and local governments to use only English for written documents. Jacque says he plans to introduce the bill because there is “widespread agreement that you really need to have proficiency with English to pursue the American dream.”
AUDIO: Rep. Andre Jacque (:16)
Wisconsin currently has no official state language. About 30 other states have enacted similar laws requiring state business to be done in English. A similar effort launched in Wisconsin about six years ago failed to gain approval in the state Senate.
Jacque’s proposal does include exceptions for when official state communications can be made in another language. Those are primarily in areas such as public health and criminal justice.
The bill is currently being circulated for co-sponsors.
