ATR/AWF Urges Members to Support HR 4464, the Common Sense English Act
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December 17, 2007
Dear Representative,
On behalf of Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) and the Alliance for Worker Freedom (AWF), we are writing to urge you to support H.R. 4464, the “Common Sense English Act” offered by Representative Tom Price (R-GA) as it will protect employers from frivolous lawsuits and maintain America’s competitive business environment.
Throughout the history of the United States, English has been the common element which unites workers in their place of employment. In this increasingly globalized marketplace, English has emerged as the primary language of commerce and development. Without this act, we are providing a disincentive for immigrants to learn English, thus placing them at a disadvantage when compared to other workers internationally.
Further, passing the Common Sense English Act will prevent frivolous lawsuits against American business owners for establishing “English in the Workplace” policies. When a group of employees continuously speaks a language other than English in a U.S. workplace in a work-related capacity, it may cause misunderstandings, create dangerous circumstances and undermine morale and workforce productivity.
The evidence is overwhelming that a majority of Americans support this Act because it ensures employers have the freedom to manage their business through the English language. Three-fourths (77 percent) of American voters believe a company should be allowed to require its employees speak English while on the job. Further, nearly nine-out-of-ten (87 percent) believe it is very important for people living in the U.S. to speak and understand English.
With the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filing lawsuits against employers who implemented “English in the Workplace” policies, it is imperative that you support and pass H.R. 4464, the “Common Sense English Act”, sponsored by Rep. Price.
Once again, on behalf of ATR, AWF, and millions of taxpaying, hardworking Americans, we urge you to support H.R. 4464, the “Common Sense English Act”. Most immigrants come to America to work. Since English is the language of commerce and development, this legislation is crucial as it protects business owners and allows them to remain competitive in the international arena.
Onward,
