American Samoa Statutory Nationality and Citizenship Act
Summary
The American Samoa Statutory Nationality and Citizenship Act aims to modify the Immigration and Nationality Act to address the status of individuals born in American Samoa who are nationals but not citizens of the United States. It allows these individuals, upon application and residency in a state or specified territory, to obtain a United States passport identifying them as both a national and a citizen. The bill also repeals Section 325 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Expected Effects
This act would change the process by which American Samoan nationals can become citizens. It provides a pathway for them to gain full citizenship rights, including the right to vote and hold certain government positions, upon residing in a state or specified territory and applying for a passport. The repeal of Section 325 simplifies the process by removing an existing section of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a clear pathway to citizenship for American Samoan nationals.
- Grants full rights and privileges of citizenship to those who apply and qualify.
- Simplifies the process by repealing Section 325 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
- Potentially increases civic engagement among American Samoan residents.
- Addresses historical inequities in citizenship status.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May create administrative burdens for the State Department in processing applications.
- Could potentially lead to increased migration from American Samoa to other states or territories.
- May raise questions about the long-term implications for American Samoa's unique political status.
- The Act may not fully address all concerns related to the self-determination of American Samoa.
- Potential costs associated with implementing the changes to passport issuance.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the 14th Amendment's citizenship clause by providing a pathway to citizenship for those born in US territories. Congress has the power to legislate on immigration and naturalization under Article I, Section 8, Clause 4 of the Constitution. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights, and aims to address historical inequities in citizenship status.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).