Louisiana House Bill HB579

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12
• Report Pass: 4/2/12
• Engrossed: 4/9/12
• Refer: 4/10/12
• Report Pass: 5/7/12
• Enrolled: 5/15/12
• Chaptered: 5/22/12
• Passed: 5/22/12

Caption

Provides relative to the official working language and certain designations of the Council for the Development of French in La. (CODOFIL)

Impact

The implications of HB 579 are significant for state laws regarding cultural promotion and language preservation. By officially designating French as a working language within CODOFIL, the state is reinforcing its identity and heritage, which may influence educational policies and community programs that foster the use of the French language. The bill aims to integrate cultural preservation with economic development, highlighting the importance of linguistic and cultural diversity in the state's social fabric.

Summary

House Bill 579, enacted in Louisiana, focuses on enhancing the role of the Council for the Development of French in Louisiana (CODOFIL). The bill mandates that the official working language of the council and its employees shall be French. This emphasis on the French language reflects a commitment to preserve and promote Louisiana's unique French and Creole cultural heritage. Furthermore, the bill authorizes the council to identify itself by alternative names including 'Office of Francophone Affairs' in English and 'Agence des Affaires Francophones' in French, thereby extending its reach and relevance to a broader audience.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 579 appears to be positive, particularly among advocates for the French language and Louisiana's Creole culture. Supporters view the bill as a pivotal step towards ensuring that French culture is not only preserved but also actively promoted within the state’s educational and social frameworks. There is an acknowledgment of the importance of recognizing Louisiana's bilingual heritage in fostering a sense of community and belonging among French-speaking individuals.

Contention

While there do not appear to be notable points of contention arising from the discussions about HB 579, the bill does align with continuing debates on cultural identity and resource allocation for language education. As the council looks to promote French language and culture, the success of this initiative might face challenges related to funding, public interest, and the integration of French in a predominantly English-speaking state. The legislation reinforces the state's commitment to preserving its linguistic heritage amidst the complexities of modern governance.