Associated Press

ST. PAUL — Gov. Tim Pawlenty says Minnesota should consider making English the state’s official language.

Speaking outside the governor’s residence in St. Paul Tuesday, Pawlenty said that as the country becomes more diverse, some people might wonder which language to use in official documents. He says that declaring English as Minnesota’s official language would clear up any questions.

Pawlenty made the comments after meeting with Chilean ambassador Arturo Fermandois (ar-TOO’-roh foor-men-DWAH’) at the governor’s residence.

The Star Tribune says about half of the nation’s states have official English language laws on their books, including Iowa and North Dakota.