To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to waive certain requirements for naturalization for American Samoan United States nationals to become United States citizens, and for other purposes.
- Last Action
- 3/25/2019
Actions
- 2019-03-25Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship.
- 2019-02-13Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2019-02-13Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2019-02-13Introduced in House
- 2019-02-13Introduced in House
CRS Summary
As of 2019-02-13 (00)
This bill establishes that a U.S. national who otherwise qualifies may become a citizen upon establishing residence and physical presence in a U.S. outlying possession (i.e. America Samoa and Swains Island). Currently, U.S. nationals must become a resident of a state to qualify for naturalization.
Individuals born in an outlying possession are U.S. nationals but do not automatically acquire citizenship through birth in an outlying possession.
The bill also waives certain naturalization requirements, including those related to English language proficiency and participation in a public ceremony, for individuals who have continuously resided in an outlying possession or state from birth to the approval of a naturalization application.
The Department of Interior may issue a grant to America Samoa for holding a referendum on whether those born or residing in America Samoa should be declared U.S. citizens.
Cosponsors (2)
- Michael San Nicolas (D-GU)
- Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon (R-PR)
Subjects
- American Samoa
- Citizenship and naturalization
- Constitution and constitutional amendments
- Education programs funding
- Elections, voting, political campaign regulation
- Family relationships
- Immigration status and procedures
- Policy sciences
- U.S. territories and protectorates
Sourced from Congress.gov (public domain).
This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.