Pennsylvania Representatives Marla Brown (District 9) and Joe Hamm (District 84) are proposing a new bill to ensure drivers have a minimum understanding of the English language, according to a memo released earlier this month.

The proposal would require that written and driving tests for truck drivers and others be given only in English. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation would also have to create an English proficiency test to make sure all new drivers can read and speak English.

PennDOT would also have to offer the driver’s manual only in English.

The English-proficiency requirement would apply only to new applicants, not to current driver’s license holders. However, the memo notes that legal immigrants who already have a Pennsylvania driver’s license would need to pass the English-proficiency exam when renewing.

“In the near future, we will be introducing legislation requiring new driver’s license applicants to pass an English proficiency examination in order to receive their driver’s license, as well as requiring all driver’s license tests to be offered exclusively in English and other changes ensuring English language proficiency,” the memo says.

It continues:

Recently, due to the mass influx of immigrants into the United States, we have continually seen accidents caused in part, due to individuals lacking the ability or desire to learn and effectively speak or recognize the English language, This is a major safety concern for obvious reasons, as being able to recognize signs, announcements, road closures, speed limits, and being able to effectively engage in communication with other drivers and state and local police is crucial for all drivers to understand if they drive in Pennsylvania.

The legislation would require the following:

• An interpreter is not permitted to be used during any licensing test.
• Both the written test and the behind-the-wheel test for a driver’s license may only be offered in English. Currently, only the behind-the-wheel test is given exclusively in English, and the knowledge test may be taken in other languages.
• PennDOT is required to develop an English proficiency examination ensuring that every newly licensed driver in the Commonwealth demonstrates the ability to read and speak the English language.
• Every new applicant for a driver’s license must pass the English proficiency examination in order to be issued a driver’s license. The examination will not be required for individuals who currently possess a driver’s license or for driver’s license renewals. However, a legal immigrant who has been previously issued a driver’s license will need to pass the English proficiency exam to renew their license.
• PennDOT may only provide the PA driver’s manual exclusively in the English language.
• The knowledge test for a CDL will be offered exclusively in the English language. Currently, only the behind-the-wheel test is given exclusively in English, and the knowledge test may be taken in other languages.

In March, President Donald Trump declared that English is the official language of the United States. 

An excerpt from the announcement:

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.