Ohio Senator Introduces Bill to End Dual Citizenship in the U.S.
Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) has introduced new legislation that would end the ability of Americans to hold dual citizenship, prompting national discussion about the future of citizenship rules in the United States.
The bill, titled the Exclusive Citizenship Act, proposes that U.S. citizens who acquire another country’s citizenship would be required to relinquish their U.S. citizenship.
Individuals who already hold dual citizenship would have one year to formally renounce either their U.S. or foreign citizenship. According to the bill, failure to respond within that timeframe would be treated as a renunciation of U.S. citizenship.
The legislation also directs the Secretary of State to create a database identifying Americans who possess multiple citizenships.
Supporters of the bill say it is intended to ensure clarity around citizenship status and potential conflicts of interest. Moreno stated, “Being an American citizen is an honor and a privilege — and if you want to be an American, it’s all or nothing.”
Policy experts note several logistical challenges. Some countries do not permit individuals to give up their citizenship, and certain nations automatically grant citizenship based on parental lineage, regardless of where a person was born. These factors may make compliance difficult or impossible for some Americans.
Historically, dual citizenship has been recognized under U.S. law, and the Supreme Court has upheld protections for individuals who hold more than one nationality. Because of this, the bill is expected to face significant legal scrutiny and uncertain prospects in Congress.
The proposal comes at a time when broader conversations about immigration policy and citizenship requirements continue across the country. No timeline has been set for when the bill will be considered further.
