U.S. English Efforts Lead West Virginia to Become 32nd State to Recognize English as Official Language

U.S. English Efforts Lead West Virginia to Become 32nd State to Recognize English as Official Language

Washington, DC—U.S. English Chairman Mauro E. Mujica today praised the West Virginia State Legislature and Governor Earl Ray Tomblin for their support of HB 3019, a bill that will now require that all official state government business to be conducted in English.

HB 3019 enjoyed widespread support throughout the state, easily passing the House with a 95 – 4 vote and the Senate with a 27 – 6 vote. Governor Tomblin signed the bill into law on Friday, making West Virginia the 32^nd state to recognize the unifying role of English as the official language.

“Governor Tomblin and the West Virginia State Legislature have taken a significant step in ensuring that state residents are unified through English as the common, shared language,” Chairman Mujica said. “This common sense law requires that all official government business be conducted in English. In turn, this sends the message to all residents that learning English is essential for success in the Mountain State. The 14,000 limited English proficient individuals residing in West Virginia will find that with an added incentive to learn English, the doors to social and economic success will open to them. I commend Governor Tomblin, State Delegate Woody Ireland and the West Virginia State Legislature for their diligence in passing this widely supported and forward thinking law.”

U.S.English continues to advocate for Official English on both the state and federal levels, with the Official English Unity Act (HR 997 and S 678) pending in Congress and legislation to declare English the official language currently being considered in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York and Michigan.

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