Do you have trouble translating the hypothetical government notice below? If so, it probably helps to have the English version right under it.

Now think about the thousands of Georgia residents — many of them citizens of our country — who have yet to master written English. What would happen to them if they received an official government notice, in a language they couldn't fully understand, about something as critically important as their house being sold at public auction because of a property tax mix-up?

Some Georgia legislators have an answer: "Too bad." They propose a constitutional amendment that would allow official government documents to be in English only.

Even if it passes and is approved by voters, the courts — federal and state — will ultimately decide whether it has any real force of law. But it has the potential to create a real mess for a lot of innocent people.

The state agency that licenses drivers, for example, provides exams and driving information in at least a dozen languages because it helps new residents understand the rules of the road. Courts are required to provide translators for non-English-speaking defendants so they know what is happening to them. Schools help non-English-speaking parents keep up to date with their children's education.

And no one — other than the usual anti-immigrant grandstanders — sees such action as a serious problem.

— Mike King, for the editorial board (mking@ajc.com)

AVISO AVISO AVISO

Se le notifica al dueño y residente de esta residencia que la propiedad será vendida en una subasta pública a la entrada del tribunal a las doce del mediodía el dia 30 del mes.

NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE

The owner and occupant of the above referenced dwelling is hereby notified that the property will be sold, at auction, on the courthouse steps at noon on the 30th of the month.