Bill making English official language passes first round

By Amy Lester, NEWS 9

Heated debate broke out at the state Capitol on Wednesday, as a bill making English the official state language passed through committee.

The bill's author, Rep. Randy Terrill, is no stranger to debate over his legislation. Last year he penned House Bill 1804, an anti-illegal immigration bill that received much opposition.

The English as an official language bill now has to pass through both the full House and Senate. Because the bill would amend the state constitution, even if it passes both the House and Senate, voters would still have to vote on the issue.

If passed, the state will do away with driving tests, state signs and state documents in any language other than English.