This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to redefine the phrase "subject to the jurisdiction of the United States" within the Fourteenth Amendment's citizenship clause . The amendment specifies that a person born in the United States is only considered "subject to the jurisdiction" if at least one parent meets specific criteria. These criteria include the parent being a national of the United States , an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence residing in the U.S., or an alien with lawful status performing active service in the Armed Forces . This proposal would fundamentally alter the current interpretation of birthright citizenship by introducing parental status as a prerequisite. Congress would also be granted the authority to implement this article through appropriate legislation.