Representative Tim Bearden

NEWS RELEASE

TIM BEARDEN APPLAUDS HOUSE COMMITTEE PASSAGE OF OFFICIAL ENGLISH LEGISLATION

 ATLANTA—Georgia State Representative Tim Bearden (R-Villa Rica) today applauded committee approval of a measure he introduced calling for a constitutional amendment making English the official language in Georgia.

“The citizens of Georgia deserve the opportunity to have their voices heard on the matter of officially recognizing English as the official language of our state,” Bearden said.  “I continue to hear from people all over the state about this issue and I feel our citizens deserve a direct vote on this matter.”

The English as the official language provision would not conflict with any current or future federal law.  Further, use of a language other than English would be protected in circumstances including: teaching of the English language; public health and safety protections; protecting the rights of the accused and victims of crimes; and promoting trade and economic development.  The House Judiciary Non-Civil committee favorably adopted the legislation calling for a constitutional amendment designating English as the official language of Georgia.

“The problems and challenges of illegal immigration continue to plague our state and our nation,” Bearden continued.  “I believe we should put this question of protecting the English language before our own citizens and continue the proactive steps we have taken to assist assimilation into this great state and America.” 

###