PANEL TO DISCUSS MAKING ENGLISH OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

WASHINGTON -- A hearing on proposed legislation to make English the official language of the United States is scheduled before a House subcommittee Oct. 18.

U.S. Rep. Bill Emerson, R-Cape Girardeau and the lead sponsor of H.R. 123, the Language of Government Act, announced Wednesday the House Economic and Educational Opportunities Subcommittee on Early Childhood will discuss the issue.

The bill would declare English the official government language and would pertain only to official governmental business, not private sector actions or personal conversations.

Emerson said more than 180 House co-sponsors have signed onto the measure.

"The bottom line is that English is a truly unique part of our American history and tradition -- it serves as a common bond and economic door opener for all walks of life in our society," Emerson said.