The Puerto Rico Democratic Self Determination Act aims to enable the people of Puerto Rico to democratically determine their political status through a credible and inclusive process. The bill mandates an initial plebiscite on March 14, 2027, offering four distinct status options: Independence , Commonwealth (Estado Libre Asociado) , Statehood , and Sovereignty in Free Association with the United States . For a status option to be approved, it must receive a majority of the valid votes cast. If no option secures a majority, a runoff plebiscite will be held on May 16, 2027, presenting the two options that received the most votes. The Puerto Rico Elections Commission is tasked with implementing these plebiscites and conducting a nonpartisan voter education campaign, with materials reviewed and approved by the U.S. Attorney General to ensure fairness and consistency. The bill details specific transition and implementation procedures for each potential outcome. If Independence or Sovereignty in Free Association is chosen, a constitutional convention will be convened to draft a new constitution, followed by the election of officers for the new nation. Both options involve the withdrawal of U.S. sovereignty, significant changes to citizenship and immigration laws, and a transition period for economic benefits and federal transfer payments, including a phased reduction of block grants over ten years. For Statehood , the President would issue a proclamation admitting Puerto Rico as a state on equal footing with others, leading to full U.S. citizenship, federal taxation, and representation in Congress. The bill specifies how congressional representation would be determined initially, including a temporary increase in House membership until the next reapportionment. Existing laws and government structures would largely continue, adapting to statehood. Should the Commonwealth option receive a majority, the bill establishes a United States-Puerto Rico Commonwealth Development Commission . This commission, composed of members appointed by Puerto Rican political parties, Congress, and the President, would examine, propose, and negotiate reforms to the current Commonwealth relationship. Any proposed reforms would require approval by both the people of Puerto Rico in a special election and the U.S. Congress. A key provision across all options is the termination of the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management, and Economic Stability Act (PROMESA) and the Financial Oversight and Management Board upon the effective date of the chosen status. The bill also ensures the continuity of vested rights and benefits for residents, such as Social Security, regardless of the status outcome. All voter education materials and ballots will be made available in both English and Spanish, and national and international election observers will be invited to ensure transparency.