WASHINGTON — New Jersey Rep. Chris Smith has tried for years to pass legislation protecting Hong Kong’s democratic systems from Chinese incursions.

He may finally get his wish.

As protesters continue to face down Chinese authorities in Hong Kong, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Wednesday she would bring Smith’s bill up for a vote. The legislation first is scheduled to be considered by the House Foreign Affairs Committee next week.

“I’ve heard it said that ‘the business of Hong Kong is business,’ but it is clear to me now that the business of Hong Kong is freedom,” said Smith, R-4th Dist. “The people of Hong Kong are working to protect the rights and rule of law that are the foundation of the city’s prosperity and unique vitality. We must stand united with the people of Hong Kong.”

Smith, Pelosi, D-Calif., and other lawmakers joined several Hong Kong activists at the Capitol Wednesday to declare their support for the pro-democracy protesters in Hong Kong, who are rebelling against efforts by the Chinese government to crack down on their freedoms.

“Hong Kong will never walk alone,” said Joshua Wong, one of the protest leaders. “We will continue our uphill battle until the day we enjoy freedom and democracy.”

Smith’s bill would require the U.S. secretary of state to certify each year whether Hong Kong should continue to receive its special treatment under U.S. law, require sanctions against individuals in either Hong Kong or China who crack down on the territory’s autonomy and freedoms, and make sure anyone arrested for participating in peaceful protests is not denied a visa to enter the U.S. because of it.

Besides Smith, 29 House members, 15 Democrats and 14 Republicans, are sponsoring the measure. New Jersey Reps. Jeff Van Drew, D-2nd Dist., and Bonnie Watson Coleman, D-12th Dist., are among them.

“When it comes to Hong Kong, Democrats and Republicans are on the same side,” said House Foreign Affairs Chairman Eliot Engel, D-N.Y.

“We have been overwhelmed and touched by the warm welcome we have received,” said another activist, Denise Ho. “This is a message to these Hong Kong people that we are not isolated in that fight.”