English Language Proficiency Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Gill, Brandon [R-TX-26]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 16, 2026
Bottom line
The bill removes current exemptions, requiring all naturalization applicants, including certain elderly and medically disabled individuals, to pass English language and civics tests.
What it actually does
This bill proposes to eliminate existing exceptions to the English language and civics knowledge requirements for naturalization. Specifically, it strikes provisions that exempt certain elderly applicants (based on age and length of residency) and individuals with medically determinable physical or mental impairments from demonstrating proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that requiring all naturalization applicants to demonstrate English proficiency and knowledge of U.S. civics ensures a common foundation for civic engagement and promotes a more unified national identity. They contend that these requirements are fundamental to full participation in American society and that current exemptions undermine the integrity of the naturalization process.
Opponents contend
Opponents contend that eliminating these long-standing exceptions would create significant hardship for vulnerable populations, particularly elderly immigrants who have resided in the U.S. for decades and those with severe medical conditions. They argue that these exemptions were established for humanitarian reasons and that removing them would unjustly bar deserving individuals from achieving citizenship.
The bill text is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its direct impact.
Section 2
Elimination of Naturalization Exceptions
This section amends Section 312(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act by removing paragraphs (2) and (3). Paragraph (2) currently exempts naturalization applicants who are 50 years of age or older and have resided in the U.S. for 20 years, or 55 years of age or older and have resided for 15 years, from the English language requirement and allows them to take the civics test in their native language. Paragraph (3) exempts individuals with a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that prevents them from meeting the English and civics requirements. The bill eliminates both of these exemptions.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that these exemptions undermine the fundamental requirements for citizenship, which are intended to ensure all citizens can fully participate in American civic life and understand their rights and responsibilities. They believe that a common language and shared understanding of government principles are essential for national unity and effective governance.
Critics contend
Opponents argue that these exemptions were put in place to accommodate vulnerable populations who have established deep roots in the U.S. but face genuine barriers to language acquisition or cognitive challenges due to age or disability. Removing them would create an inhumane and unnecessary barrier to citizenship for individuals who have often contributed to American society for decades.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for a uniform standard of civic knowledge and language proficiency for all citizens against the humanitarian consideration for elderly and disabled immigrants who may face significant challenges in meeting those standards.