To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to waive certain naturalization requirements for United States nationals, and for other purposes.
Impact
If passed, HB6061 would significantly alter the pathway to citizenship for U.S. nationals, particularly those who have served in the military or reside in U.S. outlying possessions. The bill’s provisions support and encourage individuals who have shown allegiance to the U.S. and wish to formalize their citizenship. By streamlining these processes, the bill seeks to honor the contributions of U.S. nationals to the nation while potentially increasing the number of individuals who can attain citizenship annually.
Summary
House Bill 6061 proposes amendments to the Immigration and Nationality Act aimed at simplifying the naturalization process for United States nationals. This bill recognizes United States nationals, who often serve in the U.S. Armed Services, and facilitates their transition to U.S. citizenship by waiving specific naturalization requirements. Among the proposed changes is the allowance for these individuals to become naturalized citizens without additional residence requirements, educational testing, or incurring fees, which could traditionally complicate the process for many applicants.
Contention
Notable points of contention around HB6061 could arise regarding the modifications to standard citizenship requirements. Critics may argue that waiving educational tests and associated fees could undermine the traditional criteria and may unintentionally open the doors to abuse of the naturalization process. Supporters, however, argue that such changes are necessary to fairly recognize the unique status of U.S. nationals, particularly those engaged in military service, and to promote inclusivity in citizenship policy.
To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide that employment authorization is only available to aliens who are lawfully present in the United States, and for other purposes.
This bill waives certain requirements for U.S. nationals applying for citizenship. Currently, individuals born in an outlying possession (i.e., American Samoa or Swains Island) are U.S. nationals but do not automatically acquire citizenship through birth in an outlying possession. Under this bill, a U.S. national who otherwise qualifies may become a citizen upon establishing residence and physical presence in a U.S. outlying possession. Currently, U.S. nationals must become a resident of a state to qualify for naturalization. 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. Furthermore, upon meeting other requirements, this bill allows a child born abroad of a U.S. citizen parent to acquire citizenship by establishing presence and residency in an outlying possession, where currently such a child must be lawfully present in the United States to acquire citizenship through this method.
To amend the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 to treat United States Citizenship and Immigration Services field offices as voter registration agencies, and for other purposes.
To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the annual numerical limitation on visas for certain immigrants, to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to grant work authorization to certain immigrants with a pending application for nonimmigrant status under such Act, and for other purposes.
To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act and the Mutual Education and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 to strengthen the critical minerals workforce in the United States.