Declaring English the official language means that official government business at all levels must be conducted solely in English. This includes all public documents, records, legislation and regulations, as well as hearings, official ceremonies and public meetings.
Official English legislation contains common-sense exceptions permitting the use of languages other than English for such things as public health and safety services, judicial proceedings, foreign language instruction and the promotion of tourism.
Thirty-one states have some form of official English law. Most recently, Oklahoma passed official English legislation in 2010. U.S.ENGLISH is currently working in several states to pass measures that will enact new official English bills or strengthen existing legislation.