American Samoa Statutory Nationality and Citizenship Act

# American Samoa Statutory Nationality and Citizenship Act (HR 6158) Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would grant U.S. citizenship at birth to people born in American Samoa. Currently, people born in American Samoa are considered U.S. nationals but not automatic U.S. citizens—a unique status that requires them to go through a naturalization process to become citizens. This bill would change that by making birthright citizenship the default for American Samoa, bringing it into line with other U.S.

territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. **Who It Affects:** The bill directly affects American Samoa's population (approximately 55,000 people), particularly children born there who would automatically receive citizenship instead of national status. It also affects American Samoans who currently hold only national status and may want to pursue citizenship. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee as of the 119th Congress. It was introduced by Delegate Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen, the elected representative from American Samoa. The bill has not yet advanced to a full House vote.