House OKs Bilingual Education Limits

A Republican bill to limit federal support for bilingual education cleared the House, three months after Californians voted to end such programs. Opponents accused Republicans of exploiting anti-immigrant feelings to win conservative votes in midterm elections this fall. Sponsors of the bill, which passed 221 to 189, said they were trying to ensure that the 3 million children who speak little or no English learn the language quickly. Despite the House action, the bill’s chances of becoming law appear dim as Congress is scheduled to adjourn in a few weeks.