BOYLE STATEMENT ON PUERTO RICO STATUS ACT PASSAGE

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) released the statement below, following House passage of the Puerto Rico Status Act (H.R. 8393). This bill combines components of the Puerto Rico Statehood Admissions Act and the Puerto Rico Self-Determination Act to give the people of Puerto Rico the ability to make an informed choice about their political future.
 
“Self-determination is a bedrock of democracy. It serves as the incubator for political, social, and economic equality”, said Congressman Boyle. “By not extending the people of Puerto Rico this fundamental right, we undercut the progress and countless contributions Hispanics have made regarding full participation as equal citizens in our democracy. Our fellow American citizens in Puerto Rico have served in our Armed Forces and have died on the field of battle defending our flag along with the right to self-determination. It is only fair and just that the same right be extended to them.”
 
The bill provides for a plebiscite (vote on constitutional change) to be held on November 5, 2023, to resolve Puerto Rico's political status. It also provides for a nonpartisan voter education campaign to inform citizens about the vote. Voters would be given three options: U.S. Statehood (51st State), independence, or sovereignty in free association with the United States.
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