Something to watch in Texas

Texas is doing something worth paying attention to. However, if these do pass, will the courts overturn them?


Rep. Jackson Files English Only Bills & Proof of Residency to Obtain a Licence

Published: 02-06-09
(AUSTIN)--This week State Representative Jim Jackson (R-Carrollton) filed three bills in the Texas House:
HB 1033 designates English as the official language of the State of Texas;
HB 1035 requires that, notwithstanding any federal laws, all applications and examinations for a state-issued license must be written or administered in English;
HB 1061 requires that any person who is applying for or renewing any occupational license, driver's license, or identification certificate must prove their citizenship or lawful presence in the United States to obtain the license they are seeking.
"I am pleased to file these bills which are based on major concerns expressed by citizens of District 115," Jackson stated.
HB 1033, if passed by the Legislature, would establish "English" as the official state language in Texas. If enacted, HB 1035 would require all applications and examinations for a state-issued license (occupational license, driver's license, or identification certificate) be written or administered in English.
"Citizens applying or renewing a state-issued license to prove citizenship is long overdue," said Jackson. "Passage of these bills would save the state money and would maintain the American tradition of a common language. Thirty states have adopted English as an official language and Texas needs to join its neighbors in passing this law," Representative Jackson said. "Actually, passage of these measures would encourage citizens to become better versed in Texas creating more equality among immigrants and citizens. To access Rep. Jackson's legislation filed this session go to www.capitol.state.tx.us and click "Bill Search," then "Author" and "Rep. Jackson." Also, there is a Toll Free Bill Status Line at 1-877-824-7038 available Monday through Thursday 7:30 AM-9:00 PM and 7:30 AM-5:00 PM on Friday, and when either chamber is in session.
You may share your views on this or any other state issue, please contact State Representative Jim Jackson at the Capitol: Phone: 512-463-0468, Address: P.O. Box 2910, Austin, Texas 78768-2910. In the District: Phone: 972-416-7698, Address: 1120 Metrocrest Drive #107, Carrollton, Texas 75006.