Designating English as the Official Language of The United States
This Presidential order designates English as the official language of the United States.
The order cites the historical use of English in foundational American documents, argues that a common language strengthens national unity and facilitates government operations, and encourages English language acquisition among immigrants.
The order also revokes Executive Order 13166 concerning services for individuals with Limited English Proficiency while stipulating that agencies may continue providing multilingual services as needed.
Arguments For
Promotes national unity and a shared American culture by establishing a common language.
Streamlines government communication and operations by establishing a single official language for federal use.
Provides a pathway to civic engagement and economic opportunity for immigrants by encouraging English language acquisition.
Reinforces shared national values and creates a more cohesive society.
Aligns with the historical usage of English in foundational American documents.
Arguments Against
Could alienate non-English speaking communities and create barriers to accessing essential government services.
May disproportionately impact immigrant populations and limit their full participation in society.
Could lead to reduced cultural diversity and the loss of valuable linguistic resources.
Might increase the costs associated with translating and interpreting documents.
Revoking Executive Order 13166, related to services for those with Limited English Proficiency, could reduce the accessibility of those services.
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
This is the opening statement asserting the President's authority to issue the order, based on the Constitution and US laws.
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.
Section 1 outlines the policy rationale for designating English as the official language.
It emphasizes the historical use of English, the benefits of a shared national language for unity, and the importance of English for economic opportunity and civic participation for immigrants.
It concludes by formally designating English as the official language.
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.
Section 2 defines key terms used in the order. 'Agency' is defined according to Title 44 of the US Code, excluding the Executive Office of the President. 'Agency Head' is defined as the highest ranking official of an agency.
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.
Section 3 formally designates English as the official language.
It revokes Executive Order 13166 (regarding services for limited English proficiency) but clarifies that agencies are not required to eliminate multilingual services.
The Attorney General will provide updated guidance that aligns with the new policy.
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.
Section 4 contains general provisions.
It clarifies that the order does not affect existing legal authorities, is subject to available funds, and does not create any new legal rights or benefits.
THE WHITE HOUSE, March 1, 2025.
This indicates the date and location of the order's issuance.