WESTMINSTER, Md. — English is becoming the official language of Carroll County.

The all-Republican Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously Thursday in Westminster to adopt an ordinance making English the official language of the county government.

Carroll joins Frederick and Queen Anne’s counties in adopting such a policy.

The measure introduced in September by Commissioner Haven Shoemaker would require the county’s official actions and statements to be in English. But it wouldn’t prohibit county employees or elected officials from communicating in other languages for unofficial business.

Proponents say the measure sends a message that illegal immigrants aren’t welcome in Carroll County. Opponents say it’s an unnecessary law that will make even legal immigrants feel unwelcome.

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