Bill > H1259

This bill, concerning naturalization proceedings, amends Section 18 of Chapter 220 of the General Laws. Specifically, it changes the word "may" to "shall" in the first line, meaning that a certain action will now be mandatory rather than optional. Additionally, it replaces the phrase "at such times as the court by general order may direct" with "to assist in naturalizing aliens resident within their respective judicial districts pursuant to section 15 of this chapter," clarifying that courts are now required to assist in the naturalization of resident aliens according to a specific section of the law. Naturalization is the legal process by which a non-citizen of a country can become a citizen.