Steve Cohen: “H.R. 4862, introduced by Mr. Serrano of New York, will allow Members of Congress to administer the oath of allegiance to…”

“H.R. 4862, introduced by Mr. Serrano of New York, will allow Members of Congress to administer the oath of allegiance to naturalizing U.S. citizens. The naturalization ceremony is a crucial landmark for immigrants. They have waited patiently to immigrate to the United States and have worked hard once they got here and have faithfully fulfilled all their obligations to this country that they have chosen to adopt as their home. In applying to become U.S. citizens, they have made the choice to become full participating members of our community. Currently, only judges or certain officials in the Department of Justice, the Department of Homeland Security, are allowed to administer the oath of allegiance at naturalization ceremonies. H.R. 4862 would allow Members of Congress to participate meaningfully in these solemn occasions by allowing them to administer the oath of allegiance at naturalization ceremonies. I have attended many. They are wonderful, heartfelt programs; and I think that the oath being given by a recognized public official such as a Member of Congress would mean much to the people that are becoming American citizens.”