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Bitter debate ensues as House approves bill that could move Puerto Rico to statehood
BY Michael Mcauliff
DAILY NEWS WASHINGTON BUREAU

Thursday, April 29th 2010, 11:33 PM



Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/2010/04/30/2010-04-30_its_split_decision_on_house_pr_vote.html#ixzz0maHnDVJo



The House on Thursday approved a bill that could move Puerto Rico to statehood - exposing a rare and bitter rift between New York members from the island territory.

Bronx Democratic Rep. Jose Serrano backed the measure, calling it a vital step to ending colonial rule, even as his usual ally, Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-Brooklyn) blasted it as a "disgrace," "shameful" and "appalling."

The measure offers Puerto Rico - a U.S. territory for 112 years - a two-step vote.

The first would ask whether Puerto Ricans - including those living in the States - like the current territorial commonwealth status or if they want change.

If the vote is for change, a second vote would ask what change they want.

"For the first time in 112 years, the Congress of the United States will ask the 4 million American citizens in Puerto Rico what they wish their relationship to the United States to be," said Serrano.

Velazquez and Harlem Rep. Charlie Rangel, whose father was Puerto Rican, said the measure was a backdoor move to a statehood vote on the island that has failed three times in the past.

"It is baffling that the statehood option, which lost in 1967, in 1993 and again in 1998, is now allowed to scheme its way to victory," Velazquez said.

Before the debate, the bill had offered three options for change: statehood, independence or an independent "free association" like three other former U.S. territories.

Velazquez argued that if keeping the current status was no longer on the ballot, statehood - always the second choice in the past - would win by default.

She favors a Puerto Rican constitutional convention.

Velazquez managed to win an amendment to add keeping the status quo to the choices.

"We restored some fairness to a badly flawed process," she said.

Still, Serrano was so pleased he wielded the final gavel, hammering it down with a wide smile.

mmcauliff@nydailynews.com



Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/2010/04/30/2010-04-30_its_split_decision_on_house_pr_vote.html#ixzz0maHWkLmN

This is off the top of my head and a vague recollection so take it for what its worth.

but didn't they put it up to a vote in puerto rico back in the day and they chose to remain a colony?

yes they have tried it 3 times 67, 93, 98

Yes what Neil said i just find it interesting thats all that they tried to remove that option from the list of options this time

with the economy the way it is everywhere, they might have foudn the right time where it will benefit both parties.

My honest opinon give them the choice either they are with use or they are alone and can become their own country we need to focus on us and if they want to be part of us then come on in our arms are open if you don't then start setting up your own government and your own army and have a field day we shouldn't have to be the baby sitter anymore

They'll prolly vote no. They enjoy benefits of being under US protection and services, without really having to give much.

thats why i say it's either yes or no!