To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to waive certain naturalization requirements for United States nationals, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Del. Radewagen, Aumua Amata Coleman [R-AS-At Large]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 15, 2025
Bottom line
The bill streamlines the naturalization process for U.S. nationals by waiving specific educational and residency requirements, providing local processing options, and simplifying citizenship for their children.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to create an expedited pathway to U.S. citizenship for United States nationals, particularly those born and continuously residing in outlying possessions. It waives requirements for English language proficiency, civics knowledge, and certain continuous residency rules. Additionally, it mandates that naturalization services, including applications and ceremonies, be made available in outlying possessions and allows for discretionary fee reductions and interview waivers.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill rectifies an inequity by recognizing the permanent allegiance, high rate of military service, and U.S.-approved education of United States nationals. They contend it removes unnecessary burdens and costs, making citizenship more accessible and equitable for those who have lived their entire lives under U.S. sovereignty.
Opponents contend
Critics might express concerns that waiving standard naturalization requirements, such as English proficiency and civics tests, could potentially dilute the meaning of U.S. citizenship or set a precedent for other groups, even while acknowledging the unique status of U.S. nationals.
The bill is short and straightforward, allowing for quick comprehension of its provisions.
Section 1(b), amending INA Section 325(a)(2)
Expedited Naturalization for U.S. Nationals Residing in Outlying Possessions
This provision allows United States nationals who have continuously resided in any State or outlying possession from birth to apply for naturalization without needing to meet the English language and civics test requirements (Section 312 of INA) or the general continuous residence and physical presence requirements (Section 316(a)(1) and (2)). This significantly eases the path to citizenship for these individuals.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this acknowledges the permanent allegiance and educational background of U.S. nationals, particularly their high rate of military service, and removes unnecessary barriers to full citizenship for those who have lived their entire lives under U.S. sovereignty.
Critics contend
Some might argue that waiving standard requirements like English proficiency and civics knowledge could set a precedent or be seen as lowering the bar for citizenship, potentially impacting national unity or civic understanding, even if nationals attend U.S.-approved schools.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire to integrate U.S. nationals more fully into the citizenry with maintaining uniform standards for naturalization across all applicants.
Section 1(b), amending INA Section 325(b) and (c)
Local Processing and Discretionary Fee Reduction for Naturalization in Outlying Possessions
This provision mandates that the Secretary of Homeland Security make naturalization applications, interviews, oaths, and ceremonies available in outlying possessions for eligible U.S. nationals. It also grants the Secretary discretion to waive personal interviews and impose a reduced application fee, taking into account the relative costs of processing these applications.
Section 1(c), amending INA Section 322(a)(5)
Streamlined Citizenship for Children of U.S. Nationals
This provision amends the requirement for a child of a U.S. national to be temporarily present in the U.S. pursuant to a lawful admission to obtain citizenship. It adds an alternative, allowing the child to be present and reside in an outlying possession of the United States. This simplifies the process for children whose parents are U.S. nationals to acquire citizenship.