A bill proposed by Rep. Cynthia Davis, R-O’Fallon, seeks to make the driver’s license exam in Missouri an English-only test without the use of an interpreter.
Missouri offers the written exam in 11 foreign languages including Spanish, Chinese, Greek and Bosnian.
In support of the bill, Oklahoma state Rep. Randy Terrill said making the change to the test would encourage immigrants to learn English and helps immigrants avoid being a “safety hazard” on the road.
Oklahoma is one of nine states currently offering English-only written test. Other states include Arizona, Hawaii, Kansas, Maine, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Utah and Wyoming. However, South Dakota allows for assistance from interpreters.
Before Missouri voters passed Amendment 1 in 2008, making English the official language of government proceedings, Missouri Immigrant and Refugee Advocates argued most immigrants want to learn English, but there weren't enough English language courses for adults.
Missouri isn’t alone in a current push for English-only exams. Georgia, Idaho, Minnesota, New York, South Carolina, South Dakota and Tennessee are also considering similar legislation.
Should Missouri make the driver’s license exam available only in English?