Digital Media Center
Bryant-Denny Stadium, Gate 61
920 Paul Bryant Drive
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0370
(800) 654-4262

© 2024 Alabama Public Radio
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Alabama's English-Only Bill Creates Sharp Debate

Montgomery, AL – A bill to require Alabama to give its driver exam in English only is sparking strong debate in the Legislature.

It was discussed at a public hearing today along with another bill that would implement a constitutional amendment saying English is Alabama's official language and preventing official government records from being in multiple languages.

The driver exam bill would end the state's practice of giving the driver exam in 14 languages and would require it be in English only.

Both bills are sponsored by Senator Scott Beason, a Gardendale Republican.

Opponents of the driver exam bill say it would hamper the state's success in recruiting foreign business investment.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

News from Alabama Public Radio is a public service in association with the University of Alabama. We depend on your help to keep our programming on the air and online. Please consider supporting the news you rely on with a donation today. Every contribution, no matter the size, propels our vital coverage. Thank you.