SENATE BILL REPORT
SJR 8207
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of February 10, 2011
Brief Description: Declaring that English must be the language of all official proceedings.
Sponsors: Senators Stevens, Benton, Becker, Carrell, Swecker and Ericksen.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations, Tribal Relations & Elections: 2/03/11.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS, TRIBAL RELATIONS & ELECTIONS |
Staff: Diane Smith (786-7410)
Background: The use of the English language in Washington is customary in governmental settings such as the printing of the Revised Code of Washington, the filing of judicial actions, and the holding of public meetings. The English language is not the official or only language used in these settings however. Interpreters are required in judicial proceedings and are commonly provided in other settings for those who do not speak English.
Summary of Bill: English is the official language of all official proceedings in this state. Official proceedings are those meetings at which a public governmental body discusses, decides, or formulates public business. Meetings are official proceedings regardless of the means of communication used to conduct the meeting.
Official proceedings do not include informal gatherings of members of the public governmental body for ministerial or social purposes.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.