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English Language Bill
Bills are proposals to make a new law or to change an existing one. Only Parliament can pass a bill. Each bill goes through several stages, giving MPs and the public the chance to have their say.
This bill provides for the recognition of the official status of the English language in New Zealand in legislation.MP in charge
Hon Paul GoldsmithCommittee
Justice
Bill No.198-1
54Parliament
Progress of the Bill
Royal Assent
The Governor-General formally signs the bill into law.
Bill () [ MB]
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Member(s) in charge: Hon Paul Goldsmith Type of Bill: Government Parliament: 54 Bill no: 198-1 Introduction: 15 Feb 2026 First reading agreed: 03 Mar 2026 Referred to: Justice Submissions due: 26 Mar 2026 Select Committee Report(s): English Language Bill - 25 Jun 2026 Second reading agreed: 21 Jul 2026 Committee of the whole House concluded: 29 Jul 2026 Third reading agreed: 30 Jul 2026