Arizona law on officials' English proficiency upheld - CBS 5 - KPHO

An Arizona Supreme Court decision upholds a state law requiring public officials to be able to comprehend and use the English language.

The unanimous opinion Friday explains why the court in February barred a woman who isn't fluent in English from running for the San Luis City Council.

A trial judge had granted a request by San Luis' mayor to remove Alejandrina Cabrera from a City Council race, and she appealed.

The Supreme court' said the Arizona Constitution and the federal law that created Arizona require that public officials be able to read, speak, write and understand English.

Cabrera argued that the law denies her constitutional right to participate in government, but the justices said it's already been established that states may set qualifications for public offices.

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