People of Puerto Rico would vote for island’s political status under Wicker bill

U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) on Sept. 27 sponsored legislation that would enable the people of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to determine the political status of their Caribbean island, which is an unincorporated U.S. territory. 

“The people of Puerto Rico deserve a voice in shaping their political destiny without being forced into a false choice between statehood or independence,” Sen. Wicker said. “Pending legislative proposals from my colleagues do not acknowledge the fact that many Puerto Ricans prefer to maintain their current status and want the freedom to decide on their own terms.”

The Puerto Rico Status Act, S. 2944, would provide Puerto Ricans the full range of options for a future referendum on the island’s status as a commonwealth, according to a bill summary provided by Sen. Wicker’s staff.

The lawmaker for years has advocated for a fair selection process for Puerto Ricans who want to remain a commonwealth of the United States. Other pending legislative proposals include statehood, independence, or becoming a sovereign freely associated state, the summary says.

“After extensive deliberations with Puerto Rican leaders, I have proposed an alternative plan that avoids favoring any particular outcome, is consistent with guidance from the Department of Justice, and empowers Puerto Ricans to determine their future through a fair and democratic vote,” said Sen. Wicker.

If enacted, S. 2944 would authorize a binding plebiscite vote on four options: independence for Puerto Rico, sovereignty in free association with the U.S., statehood, or retaining the status of Puerto Rico as a commonwealth, according to the summary.

The measure has been referred for consideration to the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.