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119-s-542119th Congress

English Language Unity Act of 2025

Sponsored By: Senator Moreno, Bernie [R-OH]

Introduced

Summary

Declares English the official language of the United States and would tie the naturalization process to an English comprehension standard for key founding documents and statutes.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 2 mixed.

Federal government must use English

If enacted, the bill would declare English the official U.S. language and require federal representatives to preserve and promote English. Official government functions would be conducted in English starting 180 days after enactment. The rule would apply to laws, public proceedings, regulations, publications, orders, actions, programs, and policies. The bill lists many exemptions, including language teaching, national security, public health and safety, Census work, victims' and defendants' rights, and use of Native languages.

New English rules for naturalization

If enacted, DHS would have 180 days to propose a single English test rule for naturalization. The rule would expect applicants to read and understand the Declaration, the Constitution, and U.S. laws. All naturalization ceremonies would be required to be conducted in English starting 180 days after enactment. Exceptions to the standard would be limited to extraordinary circumstances.

Courts favor English text when unclear

If enacted, courts and agencies would presume English-language requirements and workplace policies are consistent with U.S. law. The bill would direct that ambiguities in English texts be read so they do not deny rights and so they reserve powers to the States or the people. This interpretive rule would affect courts, federal agencies, employers, and others and would take effect 180 days after enactment.

Right to sue over language rules

If enacted, a person injured by a violation of the Official Language chapter could file a civil lawsuit. This private right of action would be available starting 180 days after enactment. The lawsuit could seek appropriate relief under federal law.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Moreno, Bernie [R-OH]

OH • R

Cosponsors

  • Sen. Cramer, Kevin [R-ND]

    ND • R

    Sponsored 3/27/2025

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

View on Congress.gov
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