This legislation proposes to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act by eliminating specific exceptions to the naturalization requirements for U.S. citizenship. It targets Section 312(b) of the Act, striking paragraphs (2) and (3) which currently allow certain individuals to bypass proficiency standards. The bill's core purpose is to ensure that all applicants for naturalization must demonstrate an understanding of the English language , as well as the history, principles, and form of government of the United States . This change would establish a uniform standard, requiring every prospective citizen to meet these foundational knowledge and language criteria.
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Timeline
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Immigration
English Language Proficiency Act
USA119th CongressHR-9742| House
| Updated: 7/16/2026
This legislation proposes to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act by eliminating specific exceptions to the naturalization requirements for U.S. citizenship. It targets Section 312(b) of the Act, striking paragraphs (2) and (3) which currently allow certain individuals to bypass proficiency standards. The bill's core purpose is to ensure that all applicants for naturalization must demonstrate an understanding of the English language , as well as the history, principles, and form of government of the United States . This change would establish a uniform standard, requiring every prospective citizen to meet these foundational knowledge and language criteria.