Section 1. English as the official language; applicability

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English as the official language; applicability

Summary: Repeal and replace old Article XXVIII, which was ruled unconstitutional

Election Date: November 7, 2006

Votes For Ratification: 1,114,273

Votes Against Ratification: 391,497

Percent for Ratification: 74%

Percent Against Ratification: 26%

Notes: Repealed and replaced all of Article XXVIII

Amendment Source: 2006 HCR 2036

Effective Date Source:

English as the official language; applicability

(1) The English language is the official language of the State of Arizona.
(2) As the official language of this State, the English language is the language of the ballot, the public schools and all government functions and actions.
(3) (a) This Article applies to: (i) the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government (ii) all political subdivisions, departments, agencies, organizations, and instrumentalities of this State, including local governments and municipalities, (iii) all statutes, ordinances, rules, orders, programs and policies. (iv) all government officials and employees during the performance of government business.
(b) As used in this Article, the phrase “This State and all political subdivisions of this State” shall include every entity, person, action or item described in this Section, as appropriate to the circumstances.

Summary: New article; Providing that English is the official language of the state

Election Date: November 8, 1988

Votes For Ratification: 584,459

Votes Against Ratification: 572,800

Percent for Ratification: 51%

Percent Against Ratification: 49%

Notes: Held unconstitutional in Ruiz v. Hull, 191 Ariz. 441, 957 P.2d 984 (1998)

Amendment Source: 1988 Prop 106

Effective Date Source: