Arguments in appeal of English policy in Altus

Monday, January 10th 2005, 1:11 pm

By: News On 6

DENVER (AP) -- Oral arguments were made Monday in the appeal of a lawsuit against a policy by the city of Altus that requires city employees to speak English when communicating about work-related or business issues.

Twelve Hispanic city employees sued over the policy calling it overly broad, unconstitutional, discriminatory and resulted in a hostile work environment for Hispanic employees.

A federal judge in Oklahoma City upheld the constitutionality of the ordinance and the employees are appealing that decision to the Tenth US Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver.

The policy says English-only communication among city employees would prevent misunderstandings and promote and enhance safe work practices.