lessened federal level of control and authority. For example, the Department of the Interior, the primary administrative agency for the territories, has undergone a significant shift in responsibility as the territories have progressed. This shift is discussed in greater detail in chapter 6. The implication of this trend in the future political relationship between the territories and the United States is not clear; however, the territories are pressing for greater voice and representation within the federal system and are seeking greater clarification of their States, political and economic relationship with the United Territories want greater representation . Voting representation in the Congress guaranteed only to state residents. The NMI, have some representation through is constitutionally territories, except nonvoting delegates who serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. These delegates serve on and may vote in committee. However, the territories are not represented in the U.S. Senate, and its residents may not vote in presidential elections. More issues representation in Congress in U.S.-territory relations. and voting rights are For example, advocates for Puerto Rico's statehood believe that only statehood status would "give Puerto Ricans political presidential elections." are In and economic equality, full participation in the U.S. including Congress and the right to vote in The other territories believe their current representation does not fully ensure that their concerns heard. 1981, the delegates from the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam introduced legislation to provide a Presidential vote for their territories. In addition, several bills have been introduced to provide full voting representation in the ‘House of Representatives. So lative proposals have been enacted. far, none of these legis- POLITICAL STATUS REMAINS AN ISSUE While the U.S. policy of self-determination has helped the territories to develop politically, it provides no specific guidance on ultimate status or goals and milestones for economic and social development. As a result, several territories reexamining their political status with the United search for a more clearly defined relationship. States are in Puerto Rico Of all the current territories, Puerto Rico has had the longest history of self-government. Even before attaining commonwealth status in 1952, Puerto Rico's residents have debated political status with the United States. Public opinion is 11 I000Z18