H.R. 4292: To establish within the legislative branch a Congressional Task Force on Voting Rights of United States Citizen Residents of Territories of the United States.

This bill aims to create a Congressional Task Force on Voting Rights for U.S. citizen residents of territories. The goal is to address the voting rights of Americans living in U.S. territories, an essential concern given their historical lack of voting representation and rights. Below are the key components of the bill:

Purpose and Importance

The bill recognizes that:

• The right to vote is a crucial tool for residents of U.S. territories to voice their opinions.
• Territorial residents have been part of American democracy for over 120 years.
• Political engagement is a top priority for these residents, especially given their historical disenfranchisement.
• Voter turnout in these territories often surpasses that of many areas on the mainland U.S.
• Residents of U.S. territories serve in the military at a higher rate per capita than many states, illustrating their commitment to the country.

Establishment of the Task Force

The legislation proposes the formation of a Task Force consisting of 15 members, which will be appointed from both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The appointments will be made through various congressional leaders, ensuring a bipartisan representation.

Task Force Composition

The members will include:

• 1 House member appointed by the Speaker in coordination with the Committee on Natural Resources.
• 1 House member appointed by the Speaker in coordination with the Committee on the Judiciary.
• 2 House members appointed by the Speaker in coordination with the Committee on House Administration.
• Various other members appointed by both the majority and minority leaders from the House and Senate, ensuring diverse representation.

Responsibilities and Timeline

The Task Force is expected to:

• Provide a status update to both houses of Congress within 180 days after establishment.
• Issue a comprehensive report within one year of enactment, which will cover:
• The impact of political disenfranchisement on residents of U.S. territories.
• Barriers to equal voting rights in federal elections, including presidential elections.
• Barriers to representation in the House of Representatives.
• Proposed changes to enhance voting rights and representation.
• Additional relevant information as deemed necessary.

Operational Framework

The Task Force will conduct hearings, gather evidence, and consult with the governments of U.S. territories, including:

• American Samoa
• Guam
• The Northern Mariana Islands
• Puerto Rico
• The U.S. Virgin Islands

Their findings will aim for consensus but may also include dissenting views. The Task Force is required to use existing congressional facilities and staff to minimize additional costs.

Termination

Finally, the Task Force will disband after completing its report.

Relevant Companies

None found