Yesterday, Ranking Republican Rob Bishop (R-Utah), Representative Jenniffer González-Colón (R-Puerto Rico), Representative Don Young (R-Alaska), Representative Darren Soto (D-Fla.) and more held a press conference on a bipartisan bill to guide the admission of Puerto Rico as a State of the Union. If Puerto Ricans vote in favor, there would be a period of no longer than 30 months for the President of the United States to proclaim Puerto Rico as the 51^st state.

“Rep. González-Colón's introduction of this statehood bill is an important step in the continued conversation about the future of the island. I commend the Resident Commissioner for her unwavering support for a stable and vibrant Puerto Rico.” – Ranking Republican Rob Bishop   

“This historic bill places us on a path towards the political equality that our people deserve. The American citizens of Puerto Rico will have the opportunity to participate in a federally-sponsored vote and be asked the following question: ‘Should Puerto Rico be admitted as a State of the Union, yes or no?’. This is similar to what happened in Alaska and Hawaii, which is what ultimately makes this legislation different.” – Rep. Jenniffer González-Colón

“With Alaska being the second-youngest state in the nation, I am deeply familiar with the deliberations and debate involved when deciding whether or not to pursue statehood. Although federal law applies in Puerto Rico, its 3.2 million U.S. citizens cannot participate in national elections, cannot vote for president, and do not have full representation in Congress. I am proud to be supporting this legislation to provide a plebiscite with the assistance from the U.S. Department of Justice and create a pathway to statehood. I have always been a supporter of the island’s right to self-determination, and this bill empowers Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico faces many issues, including economic difficulty and the ongoing hurricane recovery efforts. Ultimately, Congress must consider admitting Puerto Rico to the Union, but in the meantime, I will continue doing everything in my power to help Puerto Rico overcome the difficult obstacles they currently face.” – Rep. Don Young

“The people of Puerto Rico have voted twice for statehood. I am proud to work with Commissioner González-Colón to make their voices be heard in Washington.” – Rep. Darren Soto

To watch the press conference, click HERE.

To read the bill text, click HERE.