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Legislative bills

Bipartisan Bill Introduced to Establish Congressional Task Force on Territory Voting Rights

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-U.S. Virgin Islands) and Congressman James Moylan (R-Guam) have introduced a bipartisan bill to establish a fifteen-member Congressional Task Force to develop a report on a path for Voting Rights for United States Citizen Residents of Territories. The announcement comes on Emancipation Day in the U.S. Virgin Islands, underscoring the historical significance of expanding democratic participation for all Americans. This legislation builds upon the framework established by House Democrats in the 116th and 117th Congresses in the For the People Act.

Key Takeaways:

  • The bill aims to establish a fifteen-member Congressional Task Force to develop a report on a path for Voting Rights for United States Citizen Residents of Territories.
  • The Task Force will be appointed by congressional leadership from both parties to ensure bipartisan representation.
  • The Task Force is required to provide a status update to Congress 180 days after enactment and submit a comprehensive report within one year examining impediments to voting rights in territories and recommended changes for full and equal representation.
  • The Task Force has authority to hold hearings, consult with territorial governments, and utilize existing congressional resources before terminating upon submitting its final report.
  • Three and a half million Americans living in U.S. territories are denied the fundamental right to vote for President and lack full representation in Congress.
  • Congressman Moylan emphasized that residents of territories serve in the armed forces in disproportionate numbers but cannot vote for their Commander in Chief.
  • Congresswoman Plaskett highlighted the importance of addressing the inclusion of residents of U.S. territories, where millions of Americans currently lack equal representation and equal voting power.

Statistics:

  • 3.5 million Americans living in U.S. territories are denied the fundamental right to vote for President.
  • 180 days is the timeframe for the Task Force to provide a status update to Congress.
  • 1 year is the timeframe for the Task Force to submit a comprehensive report examining impediments to voting rights in territories and recommended changes for full and equal representation.
  • 15 members will comprise the Congressional Task Force.

Sources:

  • [United States House of Representatives]
  • [Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)]

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