1. Definitions

Section 1. In this article, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Government" includes all laws, public proceedings, rules, publications, orders, actions, programs, policies, departments, boards, agencies, organizations and instrumentalities of this state or political subdivisions of this state, as appropriate under the circumstances to a particular official action.

2. "Official action" includes the performance of any function or action on behalf of this state or a political subdivision of this state or required by state law that appears to present the views, position or imprimatur of the state or political subdivision or that binds or commits the state or political subdivision, but does not include:

(a) The teaching of or the encouragement of learning languages other than English.

(b) Actions required under the federal individuals with disabilities education act or other federal laws.

(c) Actions, documents or policies necessary for tourism, commerce or international trade.

(d) Actions or documents that protect the public health and safety, including law enforcement and emergency services.

(e) Actions that protect the rights of victims of crimes or criminal defendants.

(f) Using terms of art or phrases from languages other than English.

(g) Using or preserving Native American languages.

(h) Providing assistance to hearing impaired or illiterate persons.

(i) Informal and nonbinding translations or communications among or between representatives of government and other persons if this activity does not affect or impair supervision, management, conduct or execution of official actions and if the representatives of government make clear that these translations or communications are unofficial and are not binding on this state or a political subdivision of this state.

(j) Actions necessary to preserve the right to petition for the redress of grievances.

3. "Preserve, protect and enhance the role of English" includes:

(a) Avoiding any official actions that ignore, harm or diminish the role of English as the language of government.

(b) Protecting the rights of persons in this state who use English.

(c) Encouraging greater opportunities for individuals to learn the English language.

(d) To the greatest extent possible under federal statute, providing services, programs, publications, documents and materials in English.

4. "Representatives of government" includes all individuals or entities during the performance of the individual's or entity's official actions.