CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) - Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has signed a bill requiring West Virginia state business to be done in English.
The Democratic governor signed the bill Friday after the Republican-led Legislature passed it.
The bill would require using English in official records, documents, rules, orders and publications. Official programs, meetings, transactions and actions would also have to be in English. It would apply to state and local governments.
Some exceptions would exist. Other languages could be used to protect public health and safety, promote commerce, teach or study other languages, comply with federal disabilities law, protect the rights of criminal defendants or victims, use proper names or legal terms, or comply with the state or U.S. Constitution.
The bill doesn't apply to officials who are campaigning or aiding constituents.
It takes effect in late May.