The Puerto Rico Self-Determination Act of 2021 intends to create a “status convention” made of delegates elected by Puerto Rican voters.
What We Know:
- On Thursday, March 18, 2021, Democrats in Congress introduced legislation to commence determining Puerto Rico’s status. Some possibilities include possible statehood and how it would affect its relationship with the mainland United States. The Puerto Rico Self-Determination Act of 2021 will have a group of delegates decide the fate of Puerto Rico.
- Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) proposed the measure to the Senate. He said the delegates would have directed talks “with a bilateral negotiating commission” with Congress members and other federal officials.
- Many Puerto Ricans would like the country to become a state or a similar form of its current territorial status. However, throughout history, the island’s ability to explore independence has been limited. According to NBC News, the island was strategically important to militaries of the U.S. and their own during the Cold War.
- Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-N.Y.) introduced the House version of the bill. The duo claimed the project is as much about permitting Puerto Ricans to defend their political identity as it is of that of the United States. Those living in Puerto Rico are considered U.S. citizens, but cannot vote in presidential elections. The islanders pay payroll taxes but are exempt from federal income taxes. NBC News mentions that compared to the states, Puerto Rico additionally does not have as much access to programs like Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and the Earned Income Tax Credit, as those living in the United States.
- Ocasio-Cortez says colonies are incompatible with democracy and full citizenship, and that they should have the chance to vote for their leaders.
“We should all be able to enjoy the right to equal treatment, and self-determination is how we can accomplish that in a process that is respected by all,” she declared.
The Act will also ensure that Congress will act on Puerto Rican people’s will. It will make sure representatives respect minority rights so islanders can participate in a “broad, democratic, and transparent inclusive effort,” said Velazquez.
