Government shall have an affirmative obligation to preserve and enhance the role of English as the official language of the Federal Government. Such obligation shall include encouraging greater opportunities for individuals to learn the English language. 163. Official functions of Government to be conducted in English (a) Official functions The official functions of the Government of the United States shall be conducted in English. (b) Scope For the purposes of this section, the term United States means the several States and the District of Columbia, and the term official refers to any function that (i) binds the Government, (ii) is required by law, or (iii) is otherwise subject to scrutiny by either the press or the public. (c) Practical effect This section shall apply to all laws, public proceedings, regulations, publications, orders, actions, programs, and policies, but does not apply to— (1) teaching of languages