H.R. 9742: English Language Proficiency Act

This bill would change the naturalization rules for immigrants seeking U.S. citizenship by removing two existing exceptions in the Immigration and Nationality Act.

What the current law does

Under current law, most applicants for naturalization must show that they can understand the English language and have knowledge of U.S. history, principles, and the form of government. The law also includes certain exceptions that allow some applicants to be exempt from those requirements.

What the bill would change

The bill would strike two of those exceptions from the law. In practical terms, that means fewer applicants would be allowed to skip the English-language and civics knowledge requirements when applying for citizenship.

Likely effect

If enacted, the bill would make the naturalization process more uniform by narrowing the situations in which an applicant can be excused from these requirements. People who previously qualified for one of the removed exceptions would instead need to meet the English and civics standards to become naturalized citizens.

Relevant Companies

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