United States · Bill · S
S. 991 (111th)
English Language Unity Act of 2009
Introduced
6 May 2009
Last action
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Status
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. (text of measure as introduced: CR S5240-5241)
Sponsors
—
Subjects
Discovery layer
Source updated
5 December 2025
Summary
English Language Unity Act of 2009 - Makes English the official language of the United States. Requires, subject to exceptions and rules of construction, that: (1) official functions of the United States be conducted in English; and (2) all naturalization ceremonies be conducted in English. Establishes a uniform English language rule for naturalization. Makes English language requirements and workplace policies, whether in the public or private sector, presumptively consistent with the laws of the United States. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue for public notice and comment a proposed rule for uniform testing of English language ability of candidates for naturalization based upon the principles that: (1) all citizens should be able to read and understand generally the English language text of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the laws of the United States; and (2) any exceptions to this standard should be limited to extraordinary circumstances, such as asylum.
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Votes
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Versions
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Documents
3 official files
Introduced in Senate (text)
Introduced in Senate · EN · 6 May 2009
Introduced in Senate (PDF)
Introduced in Senate · EN · 6 May 2009
Introduced in Senate
summary · EN · 6 May 2009
Sponsors
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Related records
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Sources
PoliticalRepo is an index and interpretation layer, not the authoritative legal source.
- Official source: https://www.congress.gov/bill/111th-congress/senate-bill/991
- Open data entity: https://api.congress.gov/v3/bill/111/s/991