American Samoa Statutory Nationality and Citizenship Act
To protect collective self-determination and individual rights under Federal statutes conferring nationality on persons born and residing in the territory of American Samoa, to enable subsequent elective United States citizenship upon application of such persons residing in a State or in a territory subject to sections 301 through 308 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and for other purposes.
This bill, HB6158, aims to safeguard the rights of individuals born in American Samoa by ensuring they can maintain their nationality and have the option to seek U.S. citizenship in the future. It responds to concerns about the current U.S. citizenship status of people born in American Samoa and seeks to provide them with more control over their citizenship options. Specifically, it allows people born in American Samoa who move to a U.S. state or another U.S. territory to apply for U.S. citizenship, aligning their citizenship path with other U.S. territories.
HB6158 primarily affects residents of American Samoa, both those currently residing there and those who might move to the U.S. mainland or another U.S. territory. By offering them a clearer path to U.S. citizenship, the bill aims to respect their rights and protect their nationality under federal law. This could potentially benefit families, economic opportunities, and personal freedom for those involved.
As of the latest update, HB6158 was introduced on November 19, 2025, and has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further review. The bill is still in the early stages of the legislative process, and its future steps will involve committee review, potential amendments, and votes in the House.