Today Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) released the following statement regarding his opposition to an unnecessary federally-sanctioned vote of the people of Puerto Rico. 

“What’s important to realize is that Puerto Rico can have a vote on this any time they want. They do not need Congress to authorize a vote on their own self-determination. In fact, as recently as 1998, Puerto Ricans have rejected statehood. What’s troubling about this bill, H.R. 2499, is that it is written in a way that only 34% of the population could determine the future status of Puerto Rico. 

“Moving forward on such a momentous decision affecting not only 4 million Puerto Ricans, but all U.S taxpayers, should not be determined by anything less than a majority. In fact, the two most recent states admitted into the union, Hawaii and Alaska, had an entirely different process where a public “yes” or “no” vote on statehood was conducted with an overwhelming percentage (94% and 83%) of voters in favor. In addition, through this bill, the ballot is extended to anyone born in Puerto Rico, not just current residents.

“At a time when Americans are struggling with record unemployment and a crippling national debt, Congress should be working on ways to help support our job-creating sector. This bill is an unnecessary distraction from our most important job of helping Americans get back to work.” —Congressman Doug Lamborn (CO-05) 

For more information about what statehood for Puerto Rico would mean, please visit the House Committee on Natural Resources Minority Staff website.