The bill H. 5274 seeks to amend Section 1-1-697 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the use of languages other than English by the state and its political subdivisions. The proposed amendment explicitly prohibits the provision of forms or services in any language other than English, with exceptions only for emergencies or when required by federal law. This change aims to reinforce the use of English as the primary language for state communications and services.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that while the state cannot mandate the use of languages other than English, it does not prevent state agencies or political subdivisions from requiring knowledge of a foreign language as a condition of employment when appropriate. The bill is currently under consideration in the House Committee on Judiciary and will take effect upon receiving approval from the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Latest Version: 1-1-697