English language proficiency requirement for naturalization

(a) In general Section 312(a)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1423(a)(1)) is amended by striking able to read, write, and speak words in ordinary usage in the English language and inserting able to demonstrate functional English literacy, including the ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend words and passages in ordinary usage in the English language, as verified through a standardized assessment administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. (b) Assessment Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall prescribe by regulation a standardized English literacy assessment for purposes of section 312(a)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended by this section, including minimum passing standards for demonstrating functional English literacy.