A summary of Southern California-related business litigation developments during the past week.

‘English Only’ Policy: The federal government sued Sears, Roebuck & Co. claiming that the retailer’s “English only” policy discriminates against Hispanics. The suit filed in U.S. District Court suit in Los Angeles said Sears requires employees at its Los Angeles Payroll Center to speak only English and since 1988 has threatened to suspend workers opposed to the policy. The suit, filed on behalf of Leonor Hernandez and other Spanish-speakers, asked for a court order barring Sears from the practice and requiring it to pay “relief” to those affected by the policy. (Filed June 13, 1990. Case No. 90-3037)