Bill > HB902

This bill establishes English as the official language of Pennsylvania, with the primary goal of preserving and strengthening the role of English as a unifying language in the Commonwealth. The legislation asserts that English is the common and traditional language of the United States, and argues that a shared language helps remove barriers of misunderstanding and promotes civic and economic participation. The bill explicitly states that while English is now the official language, it does not infringe on individuals' rights to use their preferred language in private settings or prevent businesses from using other languages. The legislation includes several important limitations, such as allowing the use of other languages in situations involving public safety, health, justice, education for non-English speakers, foreign language instruction, and protection of criminal defendants' rights. Government entities are required to take reasonable steps to preserve and enhance the role of English, and appropriated funds cannot be used to promote languages other than English, with exceptions outlined in the bill. The law will take effect 90 days after its passage, and it aims to ensure that the Commonwealth promotes English proficiency while respecting linguistic diversity in specific contexts.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=902