May 24, 2005
Senator Akaka introduces new language legislation
On May 19th, at the JNCL-NCLIS Legislative Day/Delegate Assembly, Senator Daniel Akaka (D-HI) announced the introduction of the S. 1089 The National Language Coordination Act of 2005. The Act would create the position of a National Language Director and a National Foreign Language Coordination Council to develop and oversee the implementation of a foreign language strategy for the federal government. The proposed Council, chaired by the National Language Director, would identify crucial priorities, increase public awareness of the need for foreign language skills, advocate maximum use of resources, coordinate cross-sector efforts, and monitor the foreign language activities of the federal government. The bill has been referred to the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee for further action.
To read a copy of Senator Akaka's floor statement, please click here
To read a copy of Senator Akaka's remarks to JNCL-NCLIS and the bill text, please visit the JNCL-NCLIS website at www.languagepolicy.org.