Immigration

Safeguarding Families of Soldiers Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 September 2007

Safeguarding Families of Soldiers Act - Provides for the permanent resident status adjustment of: (1) a parent or spouse of an Armed Forces member deployed in Iraq in connection with Operation Freedom or in Afghanistan in connection with Operation Enduring Freedom; or (2) a son or daughter under the age of 21 years old of such Armed Forces member. Authorizes waiver of specified grounds of inadmissibility for humanitarian purposes, to assure family unity, or when otherwise in the public interest.

Increasing American Wages and Benefits Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2007

Increasing American Wages and Benefits Act of 2007 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize: (1) the Secretary of Labor to enforce federal labor laws with respect to employers of H-2B nonagricultural temporary workers; and (2) a private right of action against such employers. Specifies employer actions to be taken to recruit U.S. workers prior to filing for admission of H-2B workers. Prohibits H-2B worker entry until the Secretary certifies that prevailing wages will be paid to such workers or to U.S. workers. Sets forth H-2B and U.S. worker protections. Directs the Secretary to establish an H-2B (employer) labor certification application fee. Establishes in the Treasury the H-2B Employment Certification Application Fee Account. Indentured Servitude Abolition Act of 2007 - Requires foreign labor contractors and employers to inform foreign workers of specified employment terms and conditions at the time of recruitment. Requires that such information be provided in written form in English or in the language of the worker being recruited. Prohibits worker recruitment fees. Sets forth protection and enforcement provisions.

Border Security and Elimination of Sanctuary for Illegal Aliens Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2007

Border Security and Elimination of Sanctuary for Illegal Aliens Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress that the worsening crisis of illegal immigration must be solved. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to: (1) increase incentives to recruit Border Patrol agents through repayment of higher education loans; (2) establish a retention program; and (3) make construction of border fencing a priority. Authorizes the Secretary to deploy newly-developed technology along the land and maritime borders. Requires that a state or local law enforcement agency that arrests an alien unlawfully in the United States for any reason shall notify United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement respecting such arrest and provide the identity of the arrested person. Provides for: (1) such person's expedited removal from the United States, and (2) criminal penalties and expedited removal for a subsequent unlawful presence. Makes inadmissible to the United States an alien who has been unlawfully present in the United States and who attempts to illegally enter or reenter the United States. (Under current law, such person must be unlawfully in the United States for an aggregate period exceeding one year.)

Disapproving the rule submitted to the Congress by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services requiring certain lawful permanent residents to apply for a new Permanent Resident Card.

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2007

Disapproves the rule submitted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requiring that aliens lawfully admitted for permanent U.S. residence, and issued a Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) between 1979 and 1989, apply for a new card during a 120-day filing period. Provides that such rule shall have no force or effect.

Expressing the sense of Congress regarding United States immigration and border security laws.

United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2007

Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) Congress should verify that current immigration and border security laws are enforced; (2) the Secretary of Homeland Security should ensure the expedited construction of the border fence; (3) a report required by the Secretary concerning progress made toward achieving and maintaining operational control over the international border should include recommendations to enhance U.S. national security on the northern border and emphasize the Administration's commitment to protecting both the southern and northern borders; (4) Congress should fully fund the 18,000 Border Patrol agents currently authorized; and (5) there should be an expansion of the program under which state and local law enforcement authorities investigate, detain, and arrest aliens who have violated U.S. law.

Families First Immigration Enforcement Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2007

Families First Immigration Enforcement Act - Requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), in a workplace enforcement operation that is calculated to apprehend or does apprehend at least 50 aliens, to do the following: (1) give state agencies sufficient notice to arrange for representatives who speak the detainees' language and to provide for any special needs; (2) afford access to state social service agencies to screen and interview detainees to determine if medical risks or risks to relatives exist; (3) consider, upon recommendation, the release of detainees on age, medical, or family related humanitarian grounds; and (4) provide a toll-free number for families of detainees to report their relationship to DHS or state social services. Requires that such aliens have access to legal orientation presentations through the Executive Office for Immigration Review's legal orientation program. States that detainees should be held within the jurisdiction of the local United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office to the extent that space allows. Requires a detainee's release within 72 hours of apprehension if such alien is not subject to mandatory detention, does not pose a flight risk, or is subject to humanitarian release. States that such alien shall be released: (1) on his or her own recognizance; (2) by posting a minimum bond; (3) on parole under the Immigration and Nationality Act; or (4) through the intensive supervision appearance or similar program.

Local Law Enforcement Restoration Act

United States · United States Congress · 20 September 2007

Local Law Enforcement Restoration Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to state that specified unlawful alien employment provisions shall not preempt any state or local law that imposes: (1) employment eligibility verification requirements imposed upon employers or employees consistent with or in addition to employment eligibility verification requirements; (2) civil or criminal penalties for violation of such state or local employment eligibility verification requirements; (3) civil or criminal penalties for prohibited acts; (4) licensing sanctions for violation of such state or local employment eligibility verification requirements; (5) licensing sanctions for prohibited acts; or (6) limitations on the private right to sue for up to treble damages. (Current law provides that such unlawful alien employment provisions shall preempt any state or local law imposing criminal or civil sanctions [other than through licensing or similar laws] upon those who employ, recruit or refer for a fee for employment, unauthorized aliens.) Applies such provisions to all applicable state or local laws that were enacted before, on, or after January 1, 2005.

No Sanctuary for Illegals Act

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2007

No Sanctuary for Illegals Act - Prohibits the distribution of federal funds to a state or a political subdivision of a state that is determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security to be interfering with federal immigration law enforcement. Terminates such prohibition when the Secretary certifies that the state or political subdivision has entered into an agreement with the Secretary to cease such interference.

To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include within the definition of "refugee" spouses of persons who have been forced to abort a pregnancy or undergo involuntary sterilization.

United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2007

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to include within the definition of "refugee" the legally recognized spouse of a person who has been forced to abort a pregnancy or undergo involuntary sterilization.

Accountability in Enforcing Immigration Laws Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 14 September 2007

Accountability in Enforcing Immigration Laws Act of 2007 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to subject all illegal alien entrants to fines. (Under current law, first-time offenses are subject to such fines and/or six months' imprisonment, and subsequent offenses are subject to such fines and/or two years' imprisonment.) Directs United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement to provide for: (1) detention of illegal aliens who are apprehended by state or local law enforcement officers; and (2) reimbursement of state and local detention costs. Requires certain airport security screeners to undergo immigration status checks. Requires owners and operators of high-risk critical infrastructure sites, in order to receive buffer zone protection grants, to conduct terrorist watchlist and immigration status database checks of security employees. Condemns rapes by smugglers along the U.S. land border and urges the government of Mexico to work with United States Customs and Border Protection to take preventive action. Affirms the inherent authority of state and local law enforcement personnel to assist in immigration enforcement while carrying out their routine duties. States that such provision shall not be construed to require such personnel to: (1) report the identity of a victim of, or a witness to, a criminal offense to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); or (2) arrest such victim or witness for an immigration-related violation. Directs DHS to establish an immigration-related training manual for state and local law enforcement personnel. Provides financial assistance to state and local law enforcement agencies for immigration enforcement assistance. Continues the institutional removal program and expands it to all states. Authorizes permanent appropriations for the state criminal alien assistance program. Provides for the listing of immigration violators in the National Crime Information Center Database.

Border Control and Contractor Accountability Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2007

Border Control and Contractor Accountability Act of 2007 - Provides that a federal contractor who employs directly or through a subcontractor an alien who is not authorized to work shall: (1) be debarred or suspended from federal contracting for three years; and (2) have the contract terminated unless the contractor or subcontractor agrees to terminate the employment of any such alien. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish the position of Small Business Administration Liaison within U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to ensure that the Small Business Administration (SBA) does not make or guarantee a loan to an alien who is unlawfully present in the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to contract with private entities for domestic transport from Border Patrol custody to detention facilities of aliens apprehended at or along U.S. international land or maritime borders. Prohibits the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from contracting with a company that employs individuals unless the company agrees to participate in the basic pilot employment confirmation program (under the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996).

Charlie Norwood CLEAR Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 7 September 2007

Clear Law Enforcement for Criminal Alien Removal Act of 2007 or the Charlie Norwood CLEAR Act of 2007 - States that: (1) state and local law enforcement personnel, in the course of their routine duties, have the inherent authority to investigate, apprehend, or transfer to federal custody aliens in the United States (including interstate transportation of such aliens to detention centers) in order to assist in the enforcement of U.S. immigration laws; and (2) effective two years after enactment of this Act, a state that has in effect a statute, policy, or practice prohibiting such law enforcement assistance shall not receive certain federal incarceration assistance. Provides for the listing of immigration violators in the National Crime Information Center database. Directs states and localities to provide the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) with specified information about apprehended aliens who are believed to be in violation of U.S. immigration laws. Provides federal reimbursement for related state and local costs. (States that such provision shall not require state or local enforcement officials to provide DHS with information related to a victim of a crime or witness to a criminal offense.) Directs the Secretary to make grants to states and political subdivisions that enforce immigration laws in the course of their routine law enforcement duties for special equipment and facilities related to arresting, detaining, or transporting illegal aliens. Directs the Secretary to: (1) construct or acquire 20 additional detention facilities for aliens detained pending removal (or a decision on removal); and (2) consider the transfer of military installations under base closure laws for such purposes. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to illegal aliens apprehended by state or local authorities to provide for: (1) federal custody upon state or local request; and (2) state or local compensation for related incarceration and transportation costs. States with respect to an alien subject to removal that the Attorney General or Secretary shall ensure such alien's detention in an adequate (as defined by this Act) state or local prison, detention center, or other comparable facility prior to his or her removal examination. Directs the Secretary to establish immigration-related training for state and local personnel. Provides: (1) personal liability immunity to the same extent as corresponding federal immunity for state or local personnel enforcing immigration laws within the scope of their duties under this Act; and (2) civil rights money damage immunity for state or local agencies enforcing immigration laws unless their personnel violated criminal law in such enforcement. Continues the institutional removal program (IRP), which shall be expanded to all states. Authorizes state or local detention of an illegal alien after completion of such alien's prison sentence for: (1) up to 14 days to facilitate federal transfer; or (2) until transfer to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Authorizes appropriations for FY2008 and subsequent fiscal years for the state criminal alien assistance program (SCAAP).

SECURITY THROUGH REGULARIZED IMMIGRATION AND A VIBRANT ECONOMY (STRIVE) ACT OF 2007 -- H.R. 1645

United States · United States House of Representatives · 6 September 2007

Expressing the sense of the Congress that States and local political subdivisions are not preempted from the enactment and enforcement of immigration-related laws and ordinances that do not directly conflict with Federal immigration laws.

United States · United States Congress · 5 September 2007

Expresses the sense of Congress that states and local political subdivisions are not preempted from the enactment and enforcement of immigration-related laws and ordinances that do not directly conflict with federal immigration laws.

America's Border Security Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 4 August 2007

America's Border Security Act of 2007 - Sets forth border security and enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) use of Department of Defense (DOD) surveillance equipment, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs); (2) road and barrier construction; (3) ports of entry construction; (4) communications enhancements; (5) aerial surveillance programs; (6) personnel increases; and (7) a national border security plan.

NET 911 Improvement Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

911 Modernization and Public Safety Act of 2007 - Amends the IP-Enabled Voice Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 to impose on IP-enabled voice service providers engaged in interstate communication a requirement to provide 911 service, including E-911 (enhanced 911) service, to its subscribers. Allows a state or tribal fee for 911 or E-911 services to be used only for such services, related enhancements, or other emergency communications services. Amends the National Telecommunications and Information Administration Organization Act to require grants for migration to an IP-enabled emergency network. Requires the E-911 Implementation Coordination Office to develop a national plan for migrating to a national IP-enabled emergency network. Authorizes the FCC to compile a list of PSAP contact information or other information on necessary 911 components to assist providers in complying with this paragraph. Allows the FCC to make any part of that information available to the public to improve public safety. Amends the Wireless Communications and Public Safety Act of 1999 to require, for IP-enabled voice service carriers, IP-enabled voice users of 911 communications, and public safety answering points (facilities designated to receive 911 calls and route them to emergency personnel) (PSAPs), parity in liability protection with local exchange companies, non-wireless 911 service users, and non-wireless PSAPs, respectively. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to authorize a telecommunications carrier to use, disclose, or permit access to call location information in emergencies. Requires IP-enabled voice service providers to provide subscriber list information to emergency service providers. Prohibits telecommunications carriers and IP-enabled voice service providers that provide emergency communications services from using information in or from automatic location information databases and master street address guides for any purpose other than providing emergency services.

To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the diversity immigrant program and to re-allocate those visas to certain employment-based immigrants who obtain an advanced degree in the United States.

United States · United States Congress · 3 August 2007

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the diversity immigrant program and provide an equal number of annual immigrant visas (55,0000) to certain employment-based aliens who obtain an advanced degree in the United States.

Immigration Enforcement and Border Security Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007

Immigration Enforcement and Border Security Act of 2007 - Sets forth border control provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) assets, personnel, and infrastructure; (2) ports of entry; (3) border security initiatives; (4) seizure of conveyances; (5) United States-Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology system (US-VISIT); (6) human smuggling: and (7) detention space. Northern Border Prosecution Initiative Reimbursement Act - Establishes the Northern Border Prosecution Initiative to reimburse eligible northern border entities for costs incurred in handling criminal case dispositions that are federally initiated but federally declined-referred. Sets forth interior enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) personnel; (2) detention and removal; (3) gang members; (4) alien smuggling; (5) illegal entry; (6) unlawful presence and illegal reentry; (7) passport, visa, and immigration fraud; (8) voluntary departure; (9) background checks; (10) state criminal alien assistance program; (11) state and local law immigration enforcement and federal transfer authority; (12) terrorists; (13) alien criminals; and (14) alien reporting requirements. Sets forth worksite enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) unlawful employment of aliens; (2) disclosure of taxpayer information; (3) social security cards and identity documents; and (4) establishment of a voluntary advanced verification program to allow employers to verify an employee's fingerprints in order to determine identity and work status.

HIV Nondiscrimination in Travel and Immigration Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2007

HIV Nondiscrimination in Travel and Immigration Act of 2007 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) bar to U.S. admission. Directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to: (1) convene a panel of public health experts to review immigration policies regarding HIV as a communicable disease of public health significance (and thus a health-related ground for inadmissibility); and (2) make a determination and report to Congress regarding the continued listing of HIV as a health-related ground for inadmissibility.

To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish an Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in El Paso County, Colorado.

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish an Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in El Paso County, Colorado.

Visitors Interested in Strengthening America (VISA) Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2007

Visitors Interested in Strengthening America (VISA) Act of 2007 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize a Department of Homeland Security official to waive certain entry documentary requirements for a nonimmigrant child (unmarried and under the age of 16) who is a citizen or national of Mexico and accompanying parent or adult chaperone in instances of: (1) medical visits; (2) student groups; or (3) special community events. Sets forth additional requirements for such entries.

A bill to extend the temporary protected status designation of Liberia under section 244 of the Immigration and Nationality Act so that Liberians can continue to be eligible for such status through September 30, 2008.

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Extends the designation of Liberia under the Immigration and Nationality Act as a country whose nationals are eligible for temporary protected status and work authorization in the United States. Sets forth eligibility requirements for Liberian nationals or for persons having no nationality whose last habitual residence was Liberia.

Regional Economic and Infrastructure Development Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2007

Regional Economic and Infrastructure Development Act of 2007 - Establishes the following regional commissions: (1) Delta Regional Commission; (2) Northern Great Plains Regional Commission; (3) Southeast Crescent Regional Commission; (4) Southwest Border Regional Commission; and (5) Northern Border Regional Commission. Directs each Commission, in its region, to: (1) assess needs and assets; (2) develop comprehensive and coordinated economic infrastructure development strategies to establish and approve grants for economic development; (3) establish priorities in an economic and infrastructure development plan; (4) enhance capacity of and provide support for local development districts; (5) encourage private investment in industrial, commercial, and other economic development projects; (6) assist state governments with the preparation of economic and infrastructure development plans and programs for participating states; and (7) formulate and recommend to the governors and legislatures of participating states forms of interstate cooperation and, where appropriate, international cooperation. Sets forth requirements for: (1) economic and infrastructure development grants; (2) comprehensive economic and infrastructure development plans; (3) approval of applications for assistance for projects; (4) grants to local development districts for assistance in payment of development planning and administrative expenses; and (5) supplemental funding for other federal grant programs (federal grant programs to provide assistance in carrying out economic and community development activities). Declares that this Act does not require a state to engage in or accept a program under this Act without its consent. Requires each Commission to annually designate: (1) distressed, transitional, and attainment counties; and (2) isolated areas of distress in attainment counties that have high rates of poverty, unemployment, or out-migration. Provides for the appointment of Inspector Generals for the Commissions. Sets forth requirements for counties eligible to receive assistance from more than one Commission, including the Appalachian Regional Commission. Requires biannual meetings of all such Regional Commissions.

Disapproving the rule submitted to the Congress by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on June 6, 2007, relating to adjustment of the Immigration and Naturalization Benefit Application and Petition Fee Schedule.

United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2007

Disapproves the rule submitted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to the Congress on June 6, 2007, relating to adjustment of the immigration and naturalization benefit application and petition fee schedule, and states that such rule shall have no force or effect.

Terror Immigration Elimination Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 27 July 2007

Terror Immigration Elimination Act of 2007 - Prohibits issuance without presidential review of a student, training, or vocational visa, or diversity visa to an alien who is a national of: (1) Saudi Arabia; or (2) a country that repeatedly supports terrorism or is not cooperating fully with U.S. antiterrorism efforts ("designated country").

H1B SAFE Act

United States · United States Congress · 26 July 2007

H1B Strengthening Anti-Fraud Effectiveness Act or H1B SAFE Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to authorize the Secretary of Homeland Security, if the Secretary has specific information concerning an employer's improper hiring of a nonimmigrant H-1B alien (temporary employment in a specialty occupation or as a fashion model), to provide the Secretary of Labor with such information which may be used to initiate a Department of Labor compliance investigation. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to require an employer filing an H-1B labor condition application with the Department of Labor to include the application number on the subsequent H-1B petition filed with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Health Center Week in order to raise awareness of health services provided by community, migrant, public housing, and homeless health centers, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2007

Expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Health Center Week.

Alien Smuggling Criminal Enterprise Deterrence Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2007

Alien Smuggling Criminal Enterprise Deterrence Act of 2007 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to impose a fine and prison term of 10 years to life for engaging in an alien smuggling criminal enterprise. Deems a person as engaging in such an enterprise if such person commits three or more violations of the prohibition against bringing in or harboring illegal aliens with three or more other persons and is an organizer, supervisor, or manager with respect to such violations. Increases the prison term to 20 years to life if any violations involve aliens under the age of 18.

Prohibition Against Criminal Alien Reentry Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2007

Prohibition Against Criminal Alien Reentry Act of 2007 - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to increase criminal penalties for certain removed aliens who illegally reenter the United States.

To extend the designation of Liberia under section 244 of the Immigration and Nationality Act so that Liberians can continue to be eligible for temporary protected status under that section.

United States · United States Congress · 23 July 2007

Extends the designation of Liberia under the Immigration and Nationality Act as a country whose nationals are eligible for temporary protected status and work authorization in the United States. Sets forth eligibility requirements for Liberian nationals or for persons having no nationality whose last habitual residence was Liberia.

To amend the joint resolution that approved the covenant establishing the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 July 2007

Northern Mariana Islands Covenant Implementation Act - Extends U.S. immigration laws, as defined by the Immigration and Nationality Act, to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, subject to a transition period through December 31, 2017. Northern Mariana Islands Delegate Act - States that: (1) the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands shall be represented in the U.S. Congress by the Resident Representative to the United States (authorized by the Covenant to Establish a Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in Political Union With the United States of America); and (2) the Resident Representative shall be a nonvoting Delegate to the House of Representatives and elected as provided for by this Act.

Federal Protective Service Guard Contracting Reform Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Federal Protective Service Guard Contracting Reform Act of 2007 - Prohibits the Secretary of Homeland Security from awarding a contract for the provision of guard services under the contract security guard program of the Federal Protective Service to any business concern that is owned, controlled, or operated by an individual who has been convicted of a felony. Requires the Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to review existing contracts, terminate any contract to that does not comply with such requirements, and award a new contract that complies.

Emergency Immigration Workload Reduction and Homeland Security Enhancement Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Emergency Immigration Workload Reduction and Homeland Security Enhancement Act of 2007 - Suspends the following immigration-related authorities: (1) the visa waiver program; (2) adjustment to permanent resident status; (3) renewal of temporary protected status (TPS); (4) the diversity immigrant visa program; and (5) certain family-related immigrant visa programs. Authorizes specified waiver authority. Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (Secretary) to establish a public listing of every alien subject to a final order of deportation for whom the appropriate country of return has refused or unreasonably delayed such action. Requires U.S. visa issuance to be discontinued in a country which has 24 or more listed individuals. Sets forth conditions for waiver of the temporary suspensions set forth in this Act (except for the suspension of TPS renewals). States that all such temporary suspensions shall cease to be effective after the Secretary certifies to Congress that certain security measures are in place, including an integrated entry-exit system at all ports of entry. Suspends the Secretary of State's authority to issue nonimmigrant visas and the Secretary's authority to admit nonimmigrant aliens, subject to specified waivers. Directs the Secretary to reimburse state and local law enforcement agencies for certain alien-related detention and removal costs.

Supporting the goals and ideals of National Passport Month.

United States · United States Congress · 17 July 2007

Supports the goals and ideals of National Passport Month.

Families Conquering Literacy Together Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 16 July 2007

Families Conquering Literacy Together Act of 2007 - Amends the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to change funding formulas under the Even Start Family Literacy program to reserve potentially larger amounts, depending on overall appropriations, for migrant, outlying area, Indian, and research programs. Eliminates the Even Start competitive grant program awarding reserved funds to states for statewide coordination of federal, state, and local literacy resources. Increases the minimum Even Start grant to states and state subgrant to Even Start entities, as well as the floor on the federal share of program costs. Allows states to use federal funds to provide subgrantees with technical assistance for professional development and collaborative activities. Requires all Even Start instructors to have at least an associate's degree related to early childhood education, elementary or secondary education, or adult education. Requires state, migrant, and tribal grantees to report annually to the Secretary of Education on their progress in achieving program quality. Revises required indicators of program quality to stress the quality of services provided and training received by program providers, rather than participant achievements. Requires the creation of an independent research panel to set the agenda for research into successful family literacy services. Directs the Secretary, after receiving design recommendations from an expert panel, to arrange for an independent longitudinal evaluation of the impact of Even Start programs that compares participants against nonparticipant control groups and addresses variations in the impact of such programs.

Secure Borders FIRST (For Integrity, Reform, Safety, and Anti-Terrorism) Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Secure Borders FIRST (For Integrity, Reform, Safety, and Anti-Terrorism) Act of 2007 - Sets forth provisions respecting: (1) border security; (2) detention of dangerous aliens; (3) removal of alien gang members; (4) grants to state and local law enforcement agencies assisting with borders security and immigration enforcement; and (5) expedited removal on criminal or security grounds. Illegal Immigration Enforcement and Social Security Protection Act of 2007 - Sets forth provisions respecting: (1) social security identification; and (2) employer and recruiter requirements. Employment Eligibility Verification and Anti-Identity Theft Act - Establishes an employment eligibility and identity verification system. New IDEA (Illegal Deduction Elimination Act) - Amends the Internal Revenue Code (Code) to prohibit a deduction from gross income for wages paid to an unauthorized alien. Stop the Misuse of ITINs Act of 2007 - Amends the Code to require Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and employer notification of the employment status of individuals not authorized to work in the United States. Sets forth birth certificate security provisions. Provides for immigration enforcement sharing of social security information. Revises the temporary agricultural worker program. States that English shall be the official language of the U.S. government. Sets forth related English-language provisions. Prohibits federal agency acceptance for any official purpose of personal identification issued by a foreign government (with a passport exception).

Every Student Counts Act

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Every Student Counts Act - Requires states, local educational agencies (LEAs), and high schools annually to calculate and report, as part of the report cards required under title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), the percentage of high school students: (1) graduating in four years and in five years with a regular high school diploma from each cohort graduating class; and (2) the percentage of students in each grade, except the graduating grade, prepared to advance to the next grade. Requires such data to be reported in the aggregate and disaggregated by race, ethnicity, gender, disability status, migrant status, English proficiency, and status as economically disadvantaged. Directs states that lack a statewide longitudinal data system with individual student identifiers to make certain interim graduation rate calculations, but requires all states to make the four and five-year adjusted cohort graduation rate calculations by 2012. Requires the use of such rates in determining the success of each high school and LEA in making adequate yearly progress (AYP) toward state academic performance standards under the ESEA. Requires schools and LEAs whose four and five-year adjusted cohort graduation rates fall below 90% overall or for any low-income, minority, disabled, migrant, or limited English proficient student subgroup, to make specified yearly progress in improving such rates or be deemed as failing to make AYP.

To halt the issuance of visas to citizens of Saudi Arabia until the President certifies that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia does not discriminate in the issuance of visas on the basis of religious affiliation or heritage.

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Prohibits the issuance of U.S. visas to citizens of Saudi Arabia until the President certifies that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia does not discriminate on the basis of religious affiliation or heritage when issuing its visas.

Pakistani Temporary Protected Status Act of 2007

United States · United States Congress · 10 July 2007

Pakistani Temporary Protected Status Act of 2007 - Expresses the sense of Congress that the extraordinary and temporary conditions caused by the earthquake in Pakistan qualifies Pakistan for designation under the Immigration and Nationality Act pursuant to which its nationals would be eligible for temporary protected status (TPS) in the United States. Designates Pakistan as a TPS-eligible country for an initial 12-month period. Sets forth related TPS eligibility requirements, including continuous U.S. presence since October 8, 2005. Requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to give prior consent to such aliens for temporary trips abroad in emergency and extenuating circumstances.

PROTECT Our Children Act of 2008

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Combating Child Exploitation Act of 2007 - Requires the Attorney General to appoint a Special Counsel for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction within the Office of Deputy Attorney General to coordinate Department of Justice policies and strategies for the prevention and investigation of child exploitation cases. Establishes within the Office of Justice Programs an Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC Task Force), consisting of state and local task forces (one task force for each state) to address online enticement of children, child exploitation, and child obscenity and pornography cases. Requires the Attorney General to establish a National Internet Crimes Against Children Data Network Center to assist the ICAC Task Force program and federal, state, local, and tribal agencies investigating and prosecuting child exploitation. Authorizes the Attorney General to award grants to state and local ICAC task forces to combat Internet crimes against children. Requires the Attorney General to establish additional computer forensic capacity to address backlogs, including for child exploitation investigations. Amends the federal criminal code to authorize wiretapping in state child exploitation investigations. Authorizes funding for additional agents and personnel for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the U.S. Postal Service.

To amend section 212 of the Immigration and Nationality Act with respect to discretionary determinations waiving an alien's inadmissibility based on certain activities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 28 June 2007

Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to revise the discretionary authority of the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security to temporarily admit an alien otherwise inadmissible on security- or terror-related grounds. States that: (1) any such determination or revocation shall not be subject to judicial review; and (2) any such determination shall neither prejudice the U.S. government's ability to bring a civil or criminal action against a beneficiary nor create a substantive or procedural right for the beneficiary.

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act

United States · United States Congress · 27 June 2007

Kendell Frederick Citizenship Assistance Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to use the fingerprints provided by an individual at the time of military enlistment to satisfy any naturalization fingerprint requirements if the individual: (1) may be naturalized under the Immigration and Nationality Act; (2) was fingerprinted in accordance with Department of Defense (DOD) requirements; and (3) submits a naturalization application within 24 months of enlistment. Requires the Secretary to: (1) establish a toll-free naturalization assistance telephone number available only to members of the military and their families; and (2) update the appropriate application form, instructions and guidebook, and Internet website to reflect naturalization law changes. Directs the Comptroller General to: (1) report to the congressional defense and judiciary committees on the naturalization application process; and (2) conduct a study of this Act's implementation by the Secretaries of Homeland Security and Defense.

Return of Talent Act

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2007

Return of Talent Act - Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to establish the Return of Talent Program to permit an eligible immigrant alien (as defined by this Act) and certain family members to return for up to 24 months (with an extension available) to the alien's country of citizenship in order to make a material contribution to that country if the country is engaged in post-conflict or natural disaster reconstruction activities. States that during such absence the alien and family members shall be considered to be physically and continuously present and residing in the United States for naturalization purposes.

To authorize appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal year 2008, to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act and title 18, United States Code, to combat the crime of alien smuggling and related activities, and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 22 June 2007

Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2007 - Authorizes appropriations for FY2008 for the Coast Guard. Authorizes FY2008 levels of Coast Guard active duty military personnel and average military training student loads. Sets forth various provisions relating to Coast Guard personnel matters. Provides for grants to international maritime organizations. Establishes the Merchant Mariner Medical Advisory Committee. Sets forth various provisions, including provisions related to shipping and navigation, vessel size limits, maritime drug law enforcement, fishing vessel safety, liability limits for natural gas deepwater ports, claims against the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund, dry bulk cargo residue, merchant mariner matters, and security. Ballast Water Treatment Act of 2007 - Regulates ballast water treatment.

COMPREHENSIVE IMMIGRATION REFORM: GOVERNMENT PERSPECTIVES ON IMMIGRATION STATISTICS (CONTINUED)

United States · United States House of Representatives · 19 June 2007

Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act - Directs the Secretary of State (Secretary) to establish processing facilities in Iraq and in countries in the region for eligible Iraqis to apply and interview for U.S. admission as refugees or as special immigrants. Includes among refugees of special humanitarian concern: (1) Iraqis who were employed by, or worked for or directly with the U.S. government in Iraq; (2) Iraqis who were employed in Iraq by a U.S.-based media or nongovernmental organization or an organization that has received a grant from, or entered into a cooperative agreement or contract with the U.S. government; (3) spouses, children, sons, daughters, siblings, and parents of Iraqis who worked for the U.S. government or who are special immigrants; and (4) Iraqis who are members of a religious or minority community and have close family members in the United States. Authorizes the Secretary to identify other priority groups in Iraq. Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide special immigrant status to an otherwise admissible Iraqi national (and spouse and children) who was employed by, or worked for or directly with the U.S. government in Iraq for at least one year in or after 2003. Directs the Secretary to: (1) establish in the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, a Minister Counselor for Iraqi Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons; and (2) designate in the U.S. embassies in Cairo, Egypt; Amman, Jordan; Damascus, Syria; and Beirut, Lebanon a Minister Counselor to oversee U.S. resettlement of persons considered refugees of special humanitarian concern. Directs the Secretary, with respect to each country with a significant population of displaced Iraqis, including Iraq, Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Turkey, and Lebanon, to: (1) consult with other countries regarding resettlement of the most vulnerable members of such refugee populations; and (2) develop mechanisms in and provide assistance to countries with a significant population of displaced Iraqis to ensure their well-being and safety in their host environments. Amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit a qualifying Iraqi applicant for asylum or withholding of removal whose claim was denied on the basis of changed country conditions to file for reopening of his or her claim.

A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the Administration should rigorously enforce the laws of the United States to substantially reduce illegal immigration and greatly improve border security.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Expresses the Senate's belief respecting specified immigration-related steps that the Administration should take to reduce illegal immigration and improve U.S. border security.

Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the Administration should rigorously enforce the laws of the United States to substantially reduce illegal immigration and greatly improve border security.

United States · United States Congress · 19 June 2007

Expresses the House of Representatives' belief respecting specified immigration-related steps that the Administration should take that will reduce illegal immigration and improve U.S. border security.

A bill to provide for comprehensive immigration reform and for other purposes.

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2007

Establishes specified benchmarks which must be met before the guest worker and legalization programs under this Act may be initiated respecting: (1) operational control of the the border with Mexico; (2) Border Patrol increases; (3) border barriers, including vehicle barriers, fencing, radar, and aerial vehicles; (4) detention capacity for illegal aliens apprehended crossing the U.S.-Mexico border; (5) workplace enforcement, including an electronic employment verification system; and (6) Z-visa (as established by this Act) alien processing. Establishes in the Treasury the Immigration Security Account to assist the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in meeting benchmark requirements. Sets forth border security and enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) personnel and asset increases and enhancements, including Shadow Wolves units; (2) a National Strategy for Border Security and a National Land Border Security Plan; (3) border security initiatives, including biometric data enhancements, document integrity, and additional ports of entry; (4) a biometric entry-exit system; (5) cooperation with Mexico; (6) forfeiture of conveyances; (7) border security on federal lands; (8) a border relief grant program for a tribal, state, or local law enforcement agency in a border-proximate or high-impact area county; and (9) increased federal detention space. Northern Border Prosecution Initiative Reimbursement Act - Directs the Attorney General to carry out the Northern Border Prosecution Initiative to reimburse northern border entities for costs incurred for handling case dispositions of criminal cases that are federally initiated but federally declined-referred. Secure and Safe Detention and Asylum Act - Sets forth detention procedures and standards. Establishes: (1) an Office of Detention Oversight; and (2) a detention alternatives program. Sets forth interior enforcement provisions, including provisions respecting: (1) additional immigration personnel; (2) detention and removal; (3) alien sex offenders and protection of immigrants from convicted sex offenders; (4) alien street gang members; (5) illegal entry and reentry; (6) passport and immigration fraud; (7) criminal aliens, including continuation of the Institutional Removal Program (IRP); (8) voluntary departure; (9) detention and alternatives; (10) criminal penalties; (11) alien smuggling; (12) tribal lands security; (13) state and local enforcement of immigration laws; (14) expedited removal; and (15) the Justice Prisoner and Alien Transfer System. Makes it unlawful to knowingly hire, recruit, or refer for a fee an unauthorized alien. Sets forth employment eligibility verification system provisions. Provides for: (1) disclosure of certain taxpayer identity information to DHS; (2) establishment of the state records improvement grant program which may be used to help states comply with REAL ID requirements; and (3) establishment of the voluntary advanced verification program to verify employee identity. Sets forth Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and Social Security Administration (SSA) immigration-related enforcement provisions. Establishes a temporary Y-visa program for non-seasonal (Y-1) and seasonal workers (Y-2) (which replaces the H-2B category). Provides for: (1) a two-year Y-1 admission with two additional two-year extensions (must be outside the United States for 12 months after working in the United States for two years), and a 10-month Y-2 admission; (2) issuance of Y-3 nonimmigrant visas for accompanying or following spouse and children; (3) three-year Y-1 commuter workers; (4) establishment in the Treasury of a State Impact Assistance Account and a state impact assistance grant program; (5) U.S. worker protection; (6) employer requirements; (7) specified annual admissions caps; and (8) bilateral agreements with countries of Y-visa nonimmigrants as a condition of making such visas available. Establishes the Standing Commission on Immigration and Labor Markets. Requires the Department of Labor to establish a publicly available electronic job registry link to state job registries. Replaces the seasonal agricultural nonimmigrant temporary worker (H-2A visa) labor certification requirement with a labor condition application filing. Revises work condition provisions. Establishes the Commission on Agricultural Wage Standards. Provides for a 10-month period of admission with a dairy worker exception. Revises student visa provisions respecting: (1) off campus work; (2) distance learning; (3) dual intent; and (4) graduate students in mathematics, engineering, natural sciences, or information technology. Revises H-1B visa (specialty occupation) provisions, including: (1) annual admissions cap increases; (2) employer requirements; (3) degree requirements; (4) merit-based extension of stay; and (5) government requirements. Revises L-visa (intracompany transfer) provisions, including limitations on start-up company petition approvals. Provides L-visa and H-1B visa whistleblower protections. Makes the Conrad J-1 visa (foreign physicians in medically underserved areas) waiver program permanent. Increases family-sponsored immigrant visas until backlogs are adjudicated. Establishes a merit-based immigrant evaluation system. Redefines "immediate relative." Eliminates specified family categories. Creates a new: (1) preference category for parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old; and (2) hardship category for persons who would have met eliminated categories. Eliminates the diversity visa program. Creates a new special visitor visa for parents of U.S. citizens and for spouses and minor children of Y-1 visa holders. Increases per-country-limits for family-based and employment-based immigrants. Establishes a nonimmigrant Z-visa category for illegal aliens who have been continuously physically present in the United States since January 1, 2007, and are: (1) employed and seek to continue working or studying (Z-1); (2) spouses, ex-spouses who were victims of domestic abuse, and parents over 65 years old of such workers (Z-2); or (3) children under 18 years old on the date of application who are the natural born or legally adopted child of the working Z-visa holder (Z-3). Prohibits nonimmigrant status adjustment. Permits permanent resident status adjustment under a specified earned adjustment process, including: (1) a probationary period; (2) filing at a U.S. consulate abroad; and (3) payment of penalty. Sets forth provisions respecting: (1) ineligibility; (2) fees and penalties; (3) security and law enforcement checks; (4) tax liability; (5) four-year admission and four-year extensions; (6) benefits termination; (7) employment; (8) administrative and judicial review; and (9) information disclosure. Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act of 2007 or DREAM Act of 2007 - Authorizes adjustment to permanent resident status for certain Z-visa long-term U.S. residents who entered the United States before reaching 16 years old. Exempts Z-visa aliens from the provision denying an unlawful alien's eligibility for higher education benefits based on state residence unless a U.S. national is similarly eligible without regard to such state residence. Agricultural Job Opportunities, Benefits, and Security Act of 2007, or AgJOBS Act of 2007 - Establishes a nonimmigrant Z-A visa category for agricultural workers and their dependents who have performed qualifying periods of agricultural work in the United States during the two-year period ending December 31, 2006. Permits permanent resident status adjustment under a specified earned adjustment process, including: (1) a probationary period; (2) filing at a U.S. consulate abroad; and (3) payment of penalty. Sets forth provisions respecting: (1) admissibility; (2) security and background checks; (3) application requirements; (4) Z-visa caps; (5) five-year ineligibility for certain federal benefits; (6) visa termination; and (7) fines and penalties. Establishes in the Treasury the Agricultural Worker Immigration Status Adjustment Account. Provides that fingerprints provided by a qualifying individual at the time of military enlistment shall satisfy naturalization fingerprint requirements. S.I. Hayakawa National Language Amendment Act of 2007 - Makes English the national language of the U.S. government. Directs the U.S. government to preserve and enhance the role of English as the U.S. national language. Renames the Office of Citizenship as the Office of Citizenship and Integration. Directs the Office to provide grants to states and municipalities for creation of New Americans Integration Councils. Establishes the Presidential Award for Business Leadership in Promoting American Citizenship. Directs: (1) the Secretary of Education to develop an electronic English learning program; (2) the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish an American competitiveness scholarship program; and (3) the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a study of the immigration appeals appellate process. Unaccompanied Alien Child Protection Act of 2007 - Addresses the care and custody of unaccompanied alien children with no lawful immigration status and no parent or legal guardian in the United States who is available to provide care and physical custody. Directs immigration officers who find such children at U.S. land borders or ports of entry to permit them to withdraw their applications for admission and return to their country of nationality or last habitual residence. Gives the Office of Refugee Resettlement jurisdiction over the care and custody of all unaccompanied alien children with specified exceptions. Requires federal departments or agencies to transfer such children in their custody to the Office. Specifies the order of preference for placing released children, including custody rights of parents and legal guardians. Requires the Office to protect such children from smugglers and traffickers. Prohibits the placement of such children in adult detention facilities or in facilities housing delinquent children unless they exhibit violent or criminal behavior. Expresses the sense of Congress that children should not be repatriated into threatening settings. Requires the Executive Office for Immigration Review to implement model guidelines for the legal representation of alien children in immigration proceedings. Revise special immigrant juvenile visa provisions. Requires such children apprehended by DHS, except those subject to contiguous country rules, to be placed in removal proceedings. Exempts such children from certain bars to asylum. Makes the Office responsible for: (1) placement suitability assessments; and (2) ensuring that minimum standards of care are met for residential alternatives to detention. Wartime Treatment Study Act - Establishes: (1) the Commission on Wartime Treatment of European Americans; and (2) the Commission on Wartime Treatment of Jewish Refugees.

Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2008

United States · United States Congress · 18 June 2007

Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2008 - Makes appropriations for FY2008 for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for various offices for departmental management and operations, including for the Office of the Federal Coordinator for Gulf Coast Rebuilding and the Office of Inspector General. Makes appropriations for security, enforcement, and investigations for various agencies, including for Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Air Marshals, the Coast Guard, and the Secret Service. Makes appropriations for protection, preparedness, response, and recovery for various agencies, including for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), state and local programs for terrorism prevention, firefighter assistance grants, emergency management performance grants, the radiological emergency preparedness program, the U.S. Fire Administration, and for disaster assistance and flood-related activities. Sets restrictions on the obligation of funds for the U.S. Visitor and Immigrant Status Indicator Technology (US VISIT). Makes appropriations for research and development, training, and services for various agencies, including for Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS), the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, and the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office. Specifies certain uses and limits on or prohibitions against the use of funds appropriated by this Act, including restrictions on obligations for deployment or implementation (on other than a test basis) for the Secure Flight program or any other follow on or successor passenger prescreening program. Directs the Secretary of DHS to research, develop, and procure new technologies to inspect and screen air cargo carried on passenger aircraft.