New bipartisan bill proposes task force for voting rights in the US Territories

On July 3, 2025, a new bill, HR 4292, was proposed, which focuses on creating a task force for voting rights in the United States Territories. This bill was proposed by Delegate Stacey E. Plaskett (D) of the US Virgin Islands and Delegate James Moylan (R) of Guam. The goal is to create a fifteen-member Congressional task force, one that reports on the path for voting rights in the islands.

“Territories proudly send their sons and daughters in harm’s way to serve in our Armed Forces at higher rates than the States,” Congressman Moylan stated regarding this bill. “Yet, we cannot vote for our Commander-in-Chief, nor vote in the House of Representatives, nor have our voices heard in the Senate.” 

This bill hinges on bipartisanship. When assembling the task force, those chosen will be selected by both parties, ensuring bipartisan representation for the work being done. After 180 days of enactment, the task force is required to submit a report to Congress. It will involve information on implementing voting rights in territories. 

The task force will also recommend changes for full and equal representation of the islands. During this process, the task force will have the authority to hold hearings. They can also consult with territorial governments and utilize existing congressional resources.

HR 4292 was announced on Emancipation Day in the US Virgin Islands. This furthered the impact and importance of voting rights for the territories. Congresswoman Plaskett noted this during the announcement of this bill. 

“Today… we take a critical step toward addressing one of the most glaring inequities in our democracy,” Congresswoman Plaskett stated. “Congress has a constitutional responsibility for the territories.” 

This legislation will allow for not only an open discussion on voting rights, but also a perspective. It permits a task force to examine the situation and directly address the democratic issue, something that the territories have been working towards for centuries. HR 4292 would be a huge step in the direction of equal rights for the US territories.