Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on Friday designating English as the official language of the United States, a move that is expected to reshape language access policies across federal agencies and federally funded organizations, the White House announced.

The order will grant government agencies and organizations that receive federal funding the discretion to decide whether to continue offering documents and services in languages other than English. This policy marks a significant shift from the mandate established under former President Bill Clinton, which required such entities to provide language assistance to non-English speakers.

According to a fact sheet released by the White House, the administration argues that the decision will “promote unity, establish efficiency in government operations, and create a pathway for civic engagement.” However, the move is expected to generate debate, particularly among immigrant advocacy groups and civil rights organizations that have long emphasized the importance of language access in ensuring equal opportunities for non-English-speaking residents.

The executive order aligns with longstanding efforts by proponents of an English-only policy who argue that it fosters national cohesion and streamlines government services. However, critics warn that it may limit access to essential resources for millions of individuals with limited English proficiency.

The Wall Street Journal first reported on the executive order Friday. Further details on its implementation and potential legal challenges are expected in the coming days.

Credit: AP