May 8, 2008

WASHINGTON, DC – House Rules Committee Ranking Republican David Dreier (R-San Dimas, CA) was honored today for his voting record to encourage English first in the workplace, in our voting system, and as a key tenant of the American identity.  Dreier received an “A” from the citizen’s action group U.S.-English for his efforts. 

“America is a melting pot, but a melting pot with a unique sense of a national identity,” Dreier said.  “As Ronald Reagan used to say, when you move to France, you don’t become French.  But if you come to America and become a citizen, only here can you become an American.  The English language is a key part of the American dream and we must take steps to protect it, respect it, and uphold it.  I am proud to be recognized for my votes on the issue and I will continue to work to make sure the importance of the English language is recognized.”

Dreier is a co-sponsor of H.R. 997, the English Language Unity Act, which would require  official functions of the United States be conducted in English and that a uniform English language rule for U.S. naturalization, and all naturalization ceremonies be conducted in English.  It would also require that English language requirements  and workplace policies be consistent with federal law.  He also voted in support of various amendments and motions that sought to protect employers who institute English-in-the-Workplace policies and encourage the use of English ballots.