New Proposal for US Citizenship Test

A new proposal from House Republicans suggests that those who are not proficient in English may be barred from taking the US citizenship test. Representative Randy Fine from Florida plans to introduce a bill that mandates the citizenship test must be taken entirely in English.

The US citizenship exam comprises various components, most of which are in English. Currently, the test includes 10 questions out of a total of 100 related to US history and government. Fine’s proposed legislation aims to remove existing exceptions that allow some applicants to use an interpreter.

Fine expressed his concerns, stating that permitting citizenship applicants to utilize interpreters undermines the concept of assimilation into American culture. “If you want to live in an English-speaking country, you should be able to speak English,” he remarked.

He further explained, “My bill requires that all applicants take the naturalization test in English only, because all who enter our country should speak our language—both speculatively and literally—with the intention of staying in our country.”

Under current regulations, individuals over 50 years old who have been permanent residents for at least 20 years can take the citizenship test in another language. Similarly, those over 55 who have been permanent residents for at least 15 years are granted the same exemption, but they must bring someone fluent in both languages to assist during the exam.

It’s worth noting that Fine’s legislation may face pushback from immigration advocacy organizations. This proposal marks a significant development—being the first in the history of the United States following an executive order by former President Donald Trump, which designated English as the official language of the country.