Puerto Rico Democratic Self Determination Act

Key Points

• The bill creates a binding vote for Puerto Rico residents to choose their political future from four options: independence, continued commonwealth status, statehood, or sovereignty in free association with the U.S. The initial vote is set for March 14, 2027, with a runoff on May 16, 2027, if no option wins a majority.
• If statehood wins, Puerto Rico would become the 51st state with full congressional representation, including two Senators and a number of House members based on population. Residents would begin paying federal income taxes and gain full access to federal programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security on equal footing with other states.
• If independence or free association wins, current U.S. citizens born in Puerto Rico would keep their citizenship for life. However, future births in Puerto Rico would no longer automatically grant U.S. citizenship. Federal transfer payments would continue as block grants for 10 years, then phase out over the next 10 years.
• Regardless of which option wins, the bill terminates the Financial Oversight and Management Board (PROMESA board) that currently controls Puerto Rico's finances. The board's funds, property, and assets would transfer to whatever new government Puerto Rico forms.
• The bill requires a nonpartisan voter education campaign in both English and Spanish, overseen by the U.S. Attorney General to ensure fairness. National and international election observers must be invited to watch the vote.