Judge Puts on Hold English-Only Law
A judge blocked enforcement of a voter-approved measure making English the sole language of Utah’s state government. The law was to take effect Monday, but state District Judge Ronald Nehring said serious constitutional issues had been raised. He issued a temporary restraining order and set a hearing for Dec. 14. The measure, approved overwhelmingly Nov. 7, contains exceptions for law enforcement or public safety needs, judicial proceedings and to promote tourism, including the Olympics; the 2002 Winter Games will be in Salt Lake City. The measure was challenged by the American Civil Liberties Union, Salt Lake City’s mayor and the Utah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
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