Federal Government & Administrative Affairs
What is the Presidential Action?
The President of the United States has issued an executive order declaring English as the official language of the country. This order mandates that all governmental communications and operations be conducted in English, aiming to foster national unity and streamline government processes. The order also revokes previous policies that required government services to accommodate multiple languages.
Background or Context with Statistics and Source References
Since the founding of the United States, English has been the predominant language for governmental and legal documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Historically, the U.S. has not had an official language, allowing for a multilingual society. This executive order shifts that tradition towards a monolingual government framework, reflecting similar policies in other nations aiming to strengthen national identity through a common language.
Why This Action Was Taken
The decision to designate English as the official language is driven by the intent to create a more cohesive society and ensure consistency in governmental operations. Proponents argue that a common language will eliminate barriers to participation in civic duties and economic opportunities, thereby integrating immigrants and other non-native English speakers more fully into society.
Short and Long-Term Impact on People
In the short term, this policy may require significant adjustments for government agencies and non-English speakers needing to access government services. Over the next three months to a year, we may see increased enrollment in English language classes and a gradual shift in public service announcements to English only. Long-term, the policy aims to solidify English proficiency across the population, potentially increasing civic engagement and economic participation among all residents.
Performance/Impact Parameters to Measure Success
Success of this policy will be measured by the increased proficiency of English among U.S. residents, higher rates of participation in civic and governmental processes, and the efficiency of government operations. Monitoring will include surveys on language use, assessments of public service accessibility, and studies on civic engagement rates.
Constitutional Validity and Legal Precedents
The executive order stands on precedents where federal authority has been used to enforce national standards. However, it may face challenges based on the First Amendment rights and previous Supreme Court decisions related to language use and rights. The rescinding of Executive Order 13166, which aimed to improve access to services for persons with limited English proficiency, might be particularly contentious in legal challenges. Content: By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered: Section 1. Purpose and Policy. From the founding of our Republic, English has been used as our national language. Our Nation’s historic governing documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, have all been written in English. It is therefore long past time that English is declared as the official language of the United States. A nationally designated language is at the core of a unified and cohesive society, and the United States is strengthened by a citizenry that can freely exchange ideas in one shared language. In welcoming new Americans, a policy of encouraging the learning and adoption of our national language will make the United States a shared home and empower new citizens to achieve the American dream. Speaking English not only opens doors economically, but it helps newcomers engage in their communities, participate in national traditions, and give back to our society. This order recognizes and celebrates the long tradition of multilingual American citizens who have learned English and passed it to their children for generations to come. To promote unity, cultivate a shared American culture for all citizens, ensure consistency in government operations, and create a pathway to civic engagement, it is in America’s best interest for the Federal Government to designate one — and only one — official language. Establishing English as the official language will not only streamline communication but also reinforce shared national values, and create a more cohesive and efficient society. Accordingly, this order designates English as the official language of the United States. Sec. 2. Definitions. For purposes of this order:(a) “Agency” has the meaning given to it in section 3502 of title 44, United States Code, except that such term does not include the Executive Office of the President or any components thereof. (b) “Agency Head” means the highest-ranking official of an agency, such as the Secretary, Administrator, Chairman, or Director, unless otherwise specified in this order. Sec. 3. Designating an Official Language for the United States. (a) English is the official language of the United States. (b) Executive Order 13166 of August 11, 2000 (Improving Access to Services for Persons with Limited English Proficiency), is hereby revoked; nothing in this order, however, requires or directs any change in the services provided by any agency. Agency heads should make decisions as they deem necessary to fulfill their respective agencies’ mission and efficiently provide Government services to the American people. Agency heads are not required to amend, remove, or otherwise stop production of documents, products, or other services prepared or offered in languages other than English. (c) The Attorney General shall rescind any policy guidance documents issued pursuant to Executive Order 13166 and provide updated guidance, consistent with applicable law. Sec. 4. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect: (i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or (ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals. (b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations. (c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person. THE WHITE HOUSE, March 1, 2025.
