Bill warrants a strong look

By Staff
An Associated Press survey of Alabama legislators found about half support passage of a law requiring the Alabama driver's exam be given in English only, but the opposition may be strong enough to keep it from getting on the Legislature's work agenda.
An ordinance enacted by the City of Russellville, which allows the police department to tow the cars of unlicensed drivers has shown those who cannot get, or do not want, a license will drive anyway.
Some senators oppose this measure, including Franklin County's Roger Bedford. Bedford says such measures could tie the state's hands in attracting foreign businesses.
With the influx of immigrants far exceeding the rate in which Alabama lands major overseas industries, it's an idea whose time has come.
If drivers can't speak English, how can we be sure they can read it. Caution signs, detour signs and all major traffic signage is all written in English. From a law enforcement standpoint, how can you enforce traffic laws with motorists whom you can't communicate with? We urge the legislature to take a strong look at this bill and support it. We don't believe it makes the state any less industrially attractive. Being proactive in addressing our problems makes us more attractive.