State Language Legislation – 1999ArizonaAnti-Bilingual Initiative –
Ballot measure proposed by "English for the Children - Arizona," closely
modeled along the lines of California's Prop.
227 and bankrolled by the same sponsor, Ron
Unz. PETITION DRIVE LAUNCHED 1/6/99; REQUIRES 101,762
VALID SIGNATURES OF REGISTERED VOTERS BY 7/6/00 TO QUALIFY FOR THE NOVEMBER
2000 BALLOT.
Navajo
Nation Council – Resolution "strongly opposing"
English-only initiative, adopted unanimously, 20 July 1999.
SB1001 – A bilingual education reform proposal by Sen. Joe Eddie Lopez that, unlike most bills so entitled, actually promises to improve education for LEP children: strengthens schools' accountability for student progress in English; expands parental rights to choose between educational alternatives; tackles the bilingual teacher shortage; and encourages programs that cultivate fluent bilingualism. PASSED SENATE, 3/17/99 HB2387 – Republican approach to "bilingual education reform"; would limit students' participation to 3 years. PASSED HOUSE, 3/10/99 Chapter 249 – Compromise
bill; authorizes a study of legislative options on bilingual education,
setting the stage for further action in 2000. SIGNED INTO LAW BY THE GOVERNOR,
5/17/99
English Only' Amendment Hits `End
of the Road' in High Court – Justices refuse
to hear appeal by Arizonans for Official English.
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