House Republican Press Release

 

 

 

January 8, 2007

Press Office: 860-240-8700

 

Rep. John Piscopo proposes bill to make English official state language

 

Once again this year, I have proposed a bill to make English the official language of the state of Connecticut. This proposal absolutely deserves to be debated in the General Assembly.

With 28 states already having adopted laws making English the official state language, it is time for Connecticut to get on board and do the same. Among the states to already adopt English as the official state language are two of our New England neighbors, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. 

Making English the official language is not a Republican issue or a Democrat issue – it is a common sense issue. According to a Rasmussen survey conducted last June, 85 percent of Americans believe that English should be the official language of the United States.

We are a nation of immigrants, with many traditions, beliefs and languages that have shaped our country for more than two centuries. English is and should continue to be our common language.

But while people from around the world are scrambling to become fluent in English, here in the United States many well-educated, well-intentioned individuals are supporting efforts that will produce a multi-lingual society, segregated by language.

We must help non-English speaking immigrants assimilate into our society as quickly as possible if they are to achieve their American Dreams - and the quickest, most successful road to assimilation is fluency in English.

English is the language of the United States. It is the language of professionals, businesspeople, tradesmen and laborers. It is the language of commerce and diplomacy.

That is why I will continue to work for the enactment of legislation that will help make our non-English speaking brothers and sisters become fluent in English as rapidly as possible.

English fluency will enable them to become fully assimilated and successful citizens capable of achieving their American dreams.

If English becomes Connecticut’s official language, it will help keep the American dream alive for generations yet to be born.

Rep. John Piscopo represents the 69th District, which includes Burlington, Harwinton, Litchfield and Thomaston, as a member of the General Assembly.