U.S. English Chairman Praises Introduction of Official English Proposal in Ford County, Kansas

U.S. English Chairman Praises Introduction of Official English Proposal in Ford County, Kansas

Washington, DC—U.S. English Chairman Mauro E. Mujica today praised the introduction of a proposal in Ford County, Kansas that would require all county employees to speak English while on the job.

The policy, “Ford County English Language Policy,” is intended to help ensure workplace safety and promote inclusion. It requires that English be spoken during working hours but provides the freedom for employees to speak a language of their choosing on breaks, during lunch periods and while off duty. An exemption is also in place which would allow an employee to interact with a foreign language speaking resident seeking assistance in his or her native language.

“I commend Ford County commissioners on the introduction of their proposed Official English policy,” Chairman Mujica said. “Kansas enacted a statewide Official English law in 2007, and this local bill will serve to enhance the policy that the state bill set forth. By encouraging county employees to speak English on the job, Ford County will be promoting a culture of inclusion while also adding an incentive for non-English speakers to learn the language of commerce for their own benefit.”

Ford County Commissioners are currently seeking public input on the proposal before taking further action.

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