NASHVILLE - Employers could make it a requirement for their workers to be able to speak English under a bill passed by the Tennessee Senate.
The chamber voted 28-2 to approve the bill sponsored by Republican Sen. Jack Johnson of Franklin on Thursday.
Sponsors say the legislation would protect businesses from potential lawsuits for refusing to hire people based on their lack of English skills.
Johnson said the language requirement would have to be based on "legitimate business necessity," and would not prevent workers from making personal calls or hold conversations in other languages.
The companion bill passed the House 80-14 last month, but differences would still have to be worked out before the measure can head for the governor's consideration.