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Bill· SS. 2694 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2019
This bill places restrictions on the search and seizure of electronic devices at the international border. A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official may conduct a manual search of a device transported by an individual at the border only if the official has a reasonable suspicion that (1) the individual is transporting goods or persons in violation of the law or is not entitled to enter the country, and (2) the device contains information relevant to the suspected violation. A DHS official may seize a device only if the official has probable cause to believe that such conditions are satisfied, or that the individual is in violation of a law punishable by more than one year and the device has information about that violation. A manual search is one that (1) is conducted without using another electronic device, software, a password, or biometric identifier to access protected data; (2) is in the presence of the individual; and (3) does not exceed four hours. For seized devices, DHS (1) shall obtain a warrant or court order within 48 hours or return the device, and (2) may not access the device before obtaining the warrant or court order. A forensic search is one that falls outside the definition of a manual search (e.g. one where software is used) and may not be conducted without a warrant or court order. The bill imposes various record keeping, information retention, and reporting requirements related to the search and seizure of devices at the border.
Bill· SS. 2691 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 October 2019
This bill establishes the position of Ombudsman for Border and Immigration Related Concerns within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The ombudsman shall establish an independent, neutral, and standardized process to assist individuals in resolving complaints related to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and related entities; make recommendations to DHS to address chronic issues identified in the complaints process; establish a Border Oversight Panel, which shall make recommendations related to border enforcement policies and strategies; review ICE and CBP compliance with departmental policies and standards of care for detained aliens; establish a Border Community Liaison in each Border Patrol sector on the northern and southern borders, which shall consult with and receive feedback from border communities on ICE and CBP policies and activities; conduct yearly evaluations of training for ICE and CBP agents and officers, including whether such training adequately addresses the use of force and civil rights issues; develop recommendations for establishing an electronic number system for tracking a child that has been separated from a parent, legal guardian, or relative; and report to Congress a plan to require the use of body-worn cameras by Border Patrol agents and ICE officers.
Law· HRH.R. 4803 (116th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2019
Citizenship for Children of Military Members and Civil Servants Act This bill establishes that a foreign-born child of a U.S. citizen member of the Armed Forces or government employee may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship even if the child is not residing in the United States. Currently, a foreign-born child automatically acquires U.S. citizenship if the child (1) has at least one parent who is a citizen, (2) is less than 18 years old, and (3) is residing in the United States in the citizen parent's legal and physical custody pursuant to a lawful admission for permanent residence. Under this bill, the third requirement is fulfilled if a foreign-born child is (1) living in the legal and physical custody of the citizen Armed Services member or government employee who has been stationed abroad (or the accompanying spouse of such a citizen), and (2) lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States.
Bill· SS. 2682 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2019
SOAR Permanent Authorization Act This bill permanently reauthorizes and amends the Scholarships for Opportunity and Results (SOAR) Program, which provides education funding for the District of Columbia, including for private school vouchers, public schools, and public charter schools. The bill requires participating private schools to be fully accredited by (1) an accrediting body with jurisdiction in the District that is recognized by the Student and Visitor Exchange English Language Program administered by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or (2) any international accrediting body designated by the Department of Education (ED). The bill revises the manner in which tutoring services provided under the program are funded. The bill revises several requirements concerning SOAR evaluations, including concerning (1) frequency; (2) ED's and the Institute of Education Sciences' duties; and (3) the issues to be evaluated, including high school and college performance measurements.
Bill· SS. 2679 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 October 2019
Citizenship for Children of Military Members and Civil Servants Act This bill establishes that a foreign-born child of a U.S. citizen member of the Armed Forces or government employee may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship even if the child is not residing in the United States. Currently, a foreign-born child automatically acquires U.S. citizenship if the child (1) has at least one parent who is a citizen, (2) is less than 18 years old, and (3) is residing in the United States in the citizen parent's legal and physical custody pursuant to a lawful admission for permanent residence. Under this bill, the third requirement is fulfilled if a foreign-born child is (1) living in the legal and physical custody of the citizen Armed Services member or government employee who has been stationed abroad (or the accompanying spouse of such a citizen), and (2) lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the United States.
Bill· HRH.R. 4718 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2019
Polling Access Safety Act of 2019 This bill limits immigration enforcement in relation to polling places and establishes various requirements related to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Absent exigent circumstances, the following are prohibited on a voting day: (1) immigration enforcement actions within one mile of a polling place; (2) identification checks at a polling place by a federal officer or employee; and (3) DHS-conducted temporary vehicle checkpoints, public transportation searches, and public training exercises. State election administrations shall post notice of such prohibitions at each polling place on a voting day. Information acquired in violation of such prohibitions may not be used to initiate deportation proceedings. DHS shall establish a training program for certain officers and employees on compliance with federal laws limiting certain political activities of federal employees and officers (e.g., the Hatch Act). The bill establishes three positions to monitor and ensure compliance with the bill. These positions shall be within the DHS Office of Inspector General, the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, and the Office of Special Counsel.
Bill· SS. 2646 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2019
Emancipation National Historic Trail Study Act This bill requires the Emancipation National Historic Trail, which extends approximately 51 miles and follows the migration route taken by newly freed slaves and other persons of African descent from Galveston, Texas, to Houston, Texas, to be studied for designation as a national scenic trail.
Bill· SS. 2625 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 October 2019
Syrian Allies Protection Act This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to provide certain Syrian nationals with special immigrant status. To qualify, a Syrian national must (1) have worked directly with the Armed Forces in a role that was vital to the success of the U.S. military mission in Syria for at least six months during a specified time period, (2) have a favorable written recommendation from a general or flag officer in the chain of command of the unit that the alien was supporting, and (3) pass a background check. The spouse or child of a qualifying alien shall also qualify if accompanying the qualifying alien. To receive special immigrant status, a qualified alien must apply to DHS and be otherwise eligible for an immigrant visa and admissible for permanent residence, except that an alien shall not be inadmissible on the grounds that the alien will likely become a public charge. Aliens granted special immigrant status under this bill shall qualify for benefits available to refugees for six months. Up to 250 principal aliens may receive special immigrant status each fiscal year under this bill. For applicants whose lives are at risk while awaiting background checks, the Department of Defense shall implement a framework to temporarily resettle such applicants in a safe third country or grant them humanitarian parole. DHS may provide lawful permanent resident status to an alien paroled or admitted as a nonimmigrant and who otherwise qualifies for special immigrant status under this bill.
Bill· SS. 2603 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 16 October 2019
Resolving Extended Limbo for Immigrant Employees and Families Act or the RELIEF Act This bill revises provisions related to family- and employment-based visas. The bill (1) increases the per-country cap on family-based immigrant visas from 7% of the total number of such visas available that year to 15%, (2) eliminates the 7% cap for employment-based immigrant visas, and (3) removes an offset that reduced the number of visas for individuals from China. The annual cap for visas for the unmarried children of citizens is increased, and the formula for calculating the cap for the unmarried children of residents is revised. The bill also establishes transition rules for employment-based visas from FY2020-FY2022, by reserving a percentage of EB-2 (workers with advanced degrees or exceptional ability), EB-3 (skilled and other workers), and EB-5 (investors) visas for individuals not from the two countries with the largest number of recipients of such visas. Of the unreserved visas, not more than 85% shall be allotted to immigrants from any single country. The Department of State shall increase allocations of family- and employment-based visas by the number of beneficiaries of such applications filed before this bill's enactment, to be allocated FY2020-FY2024 to beneficiaries of applications filed before this bill's enactment who have not yet received a visa. The minor children and spouses of permanent residents and those accompanying a qualified alien shall be treated as an immediate relative for immigration purposes. Whether an alien qualifies as a minor shall be determined according to the alien's age at the time a relevant petition is filed.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 621 (116th)open
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2019
This resolution expresses the House of Representatives' support for the celebration of Filipino American History Month as a testament to the long and proud advancement of Filipino Americans and a time to renew efforts toward researching and examining the history of Filipino Americans to give all people of the United States an opportunity to learn about their contributions.
Bill· HRH.R. 4623 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 8 October 2019
Keep STEM Talent Act of 2019 This bill exempts certain aliens with advanced degrees in a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) field from direct limitations on the number of immigrant visas granted per year. Specifically, the alien must (1) have earned a master's level or higher degree in certain STEM fields while in the United States attending an accredited higher education institution, (2) be employed (or have a job offer) in a field related to the degree and earn at least the median wage for that occupation, and (3) meet certain labor certification requirements. The bill also allows an alien seeking a nonimmigrant F-1 (student) visa to obtain an advanced STEM degree to have dual intent. Specifically, such an alien may obtain the nonimmigrant visa or change nonimmigrant status even if the alien intends to seek lawful permanent resident status. (Generally, an alien may be denied a nonimmigrant visa if the alien actually intends to seek immigrant status, unless dual intent is allowed for that type of visa.)
Bill· HRH.R. 4599 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 October 2019
The Southern Border Communities Relief Act of 2019 This bill authorizes assistance to jurisdictions and organizations providing services for aliens released from Department of Homeland Security (DHS) custody. It also directs DHS to develop a standard protocol related to releasing aliens from custody and issuing notices to such aliens to appear in immigration proceedings. The assistance authorized under this bill shall (1) be for FY2021, FY2022, and FY2023; (2) only be used to provide assistance for aliens released from DHS custody; (3) be distributed by the Emergency Food and Shelter Program National Board; and (4) only be given to jurisdictions that have experienced a significant influx of released aliens or organizations in such jurisdictions. The protocols related to releasing aliens and issuing notices to appear shall include requirements related to (1) coordinating with local governments and organizations on a release date and time, (2) releasing aliens in locations where organizations can provide assistance, and (3) ensuring that notices to appear contain complete and accurate information.
Bill· SS. 2584 (116th)open
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2019
Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2020 This bill provides FY2020 appropriations to the Department of Commerce; the Department of Justice (DOJ); science agencies, including the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF); and several related agencies. The bill provides appropriations to the Department of Commerce for the International Trade Administration, the Bureau of Industry and Security, the Economic Development Administration, the Minority Business Development Agency, Economic and Statistical Analysis, the Bureau of the Census, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Departmental Management. The bill provides appropriations to DOJ for General Administration; the Executive Office for Immigration Review; the Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Parole Commission; Legal Activities; the U.S. Marshals Service; the National Security Division; Interagency Law Enforcement; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and the Federal Prison System. The bill also provides appropriations to DOJ for State and Local Law Enforcement Activities, including the Office on Violence Against Women, the Office of Justice Programs, and Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS). The bill provides appropriations for science agencies, including the Office of Science and Technology Policy, the National Space Council, NASA, and the NSF. The bill provides appropriations to related agencies, including the Commission on Civil Rights, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the U.S. International Trade Commission, the Legal Services Corporation, the Marine Mammal Commission, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, and the State Justice Institute. The bill also sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations Acts.
Bill· SS. 2582 (116th)open
United States · United States Congress · 26 September 2019
Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2020 This bill provides FY2020 appropriations for the Department of Homeland Security. The bill provides appropriations for Departmental Management, Operations, Intelligence, and Oversight, including the Office of the Secretary and Executive Management; the Management Directorate; Intelligence, Analysis, and Operations Coordination; and the Office of Inspector General. The bill provides appropriations for Security, Enforcement, and Investigations, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Transportation Security Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Secret Service. The bill provides appropriations for Protection, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The bill provides appropriations for Research, Development, Training, and Services, including U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers, the Science and Technology Directorate, and the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office. The bill also sets forth requirements and restrictions for using funds provided by this and other appropriations Acts.
Bill· HRH.R. 4498 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 September 2019
Promoting Tourism to Enhance our Economy Act of 2019 This bill establishes a nonimmigrant visa for qualified Canadian citizens. The Department of Homeland Security may admit as a visitor a Canadian citizen who (1) is at least 55 years old, (2) maintains a residence in Canada, (3) owns a U.S. residence or has signed a rental agreement for the duration of the stay, (4) is not inadmissible or deportable under various provisions, (5) will not engage in U.S. employment, and (6) will not seek U.S. assistance or benefits. Such visitors may be admitted for up to 240 days out of any single 365-day period.
Bill· HRH.R. 4479 (116th)open
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2019
Disaster Recovery Workforce Act This bill directs the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to increase the annual cap on permits for alien workers entering the Northern Mariana Islands to work in the construction and extraction occupations. Specifically, DHS shall increase the cap by 3,000 permits each year for FY2020, FY2021, and FY2022. Various existing limitations on permits for such occupations shall not apply during these years.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 577 (116th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2019
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 2203) to increase transparency, accountability, and community engagement within the Department of Homeland Security, provide independent oversight of border security activities, improve training for agents and officers of U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3525) to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to establish uniform processes for medical screening of individuals interdicted between ports of entry, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the resolution (H. Res. 576) expressing the sense of the House of Representatives with respect to the whistleblower complaint of August 12, 2019, made to the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community.
Bill· SS. 2540 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2019
EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2019 This bill reauthorizes the EB-5 Regional Center program through FY2024 and makes various changes to the program, such as imposing various oversight requirements. (EB-5 visas provide permanent resident status to qualified alien investors. A regional center allows EB-5 aliens to pool investments to meet various investment and job creation requirements.) Oversight-related provisions include requiring each center to (1) notify the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of proposed changes to the center's structure, (2) maintain certain records and make such records available to DHS for audits, (3) obtain approval for each particular investment offering, and (4) annually report to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The bill prohibits certain individuals and entities from involvement in a center, such as (1) a person who had committed a violation involving fraud in the previous 10 years, (2) a non-U.S. national not admitted for permanent residence, or (3) a foreign government official. DHS shall deny petitions, such as a petition to certify a regional center or to classify an alien as an alien investor, if approval would threaten U.S. national interest. The bill provides various enforcement authority to DHS and USCIS, including the ability to permanently bar an individual from participating in the regional center program. The bill establishes the EB-5 Integrity Fund to fund program enforcement activities. The bill contains various provisions related to EB-5 petitions, such as a provision authorizing DHS to extend an alien's conditional permanent residence status.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 55 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 September 2019
This joint resolution prohibits the rule changes related to the EB-5 investor program and submitted by the Department of Homeland Security in 84 Fed. Reg. 35750 on July 24, 2019, from taking effect. The EB-5 visa provides lawful permanent residence to foreign nationals who invest a specified amount of capital in a new commercial enterprise in the United States and create at least 10 jobs. The changes under the rule include (1) increasing the minimum required investment amounts to qualify for an EB-5 visa, and (2) changing the criteria for determining when an area qualifies as a targeted employment area.
Bill· HJRESH.J.Res. 75 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 19 September 2019
This joint resolution terminates the national emergency related to the U.S.-Mexico border, declared by the President on February 15, 2019.
Bill· HRH.R. 4394 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2019
Protecting Flores Agreement Act This bill prohibits federal funds from being used to violate a 1997 agreement, which is commonly known as the Flores settlement agreement and imposes requirements related to the treatment of detained alien minors.
Bill· HRH.R. 4390 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2019
Removing Marijuana from Deportable Offenses Act This bill removes offenses involving the use, possession, or distribution of marijuana from the list of crimes that could render an alien inadmissible into the United States or deportable. An alien previously denied a visa for such marijuana-related activities may reapply for a visa, and an alien previously deported for such activities shall be readmitted into the United States if not otherwise inadmissible.
Bill· HRH.R. 4383 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2019
Cents for Sense Act of 2019 This bill establishes the Traveler's Border Protection Fund and directs the Transportation Security Administration to transfer unclaimed money recovered at airport security checkpoints into the fund. The fund shall be available only to the Department of Homeland Security for the construction or maintenance of a barrier on the U.S.-Mexico border.
Law· HRH.R. 4378 (116th)enacted
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2019
Continuing Appropriations Act, 2020, and Health Extenders Act of 2019 This bill provides FY2020 continuing appropriations to federal agencies through November 21, 2019. It is known as a continuing resolution (CR) and prevents a government shutdown that would otherwise occur when FY2020 begins on October 1, 2019, if the 12 regular appropriations bills that fund the federal government for FY2020 have not been enacted. The CR funds most projects and activities at the FY2019 levels with several exceptions that provide funding flexibility and additional appropriations to various programs. Additionally, the CR extends several programs that are scheduled to expire at the end of FY2019, including several health programs, the National Flood Insurance Program, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program and related programs, several authorities related to immigration, the Calfed Bay-Delta Authorization Act, the Department of Education's National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom. The bill also includes a provision that permits the Department of Agriculture to continue making payments to farmers affected by retaliatory tariffs by accelerating reimbursements to the Commodity Credit Corporation for certain net realized losses sustained in FY2019.
Bill· SS. 2507 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 18 September 2019
Canadian Snowbirds Act This bill establishes a nonimmigrant visa for qualified Canadian citizens. The Department of Homeland Security may admit as a visitor a Canadian citizen who (1) is at least 50 years old, (2) maintains a residence in Canada, (3) owns a U.S. residence or has signed a rental agreement for the duration of the stay, (4) is not inadmissible or deportable under various provisions, (5) will not engage in U.S. employment except for services for the visitor's employer in Canada, and (6) will not seek U.S. assistance or benefits. Such visitors may be admitted for up to 240 days out of any single 365-day period.
Bill· SS. 2482 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 17 September 2019
Protect American Values Act This bill prohibits using federal funds to implement the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rule Inadmissibility on Public Charge Grounds , published August 14, 2019, which expands the definition of a public charge for immigration purposes. (An alien who is a public charge may be denied certain immigration benefits, such as lawful permanent residence. Currently, a public charge is generally interpreted as an individual who is primarily dependent on the government for subsistence. The DHS rule would define a public charge to mean an individual who receives more than 12 months' worth of designated public benefits in a 36-month period.)
Bill· HRH.R. 4319 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2019
Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act of 2019 This bill provides protections for certain aliens who are victims of crimes and violence. The bill removes the annual cap on the number of visas issued to aliens who are victims of certain serious crimes and are likely to be helpful to law enforcement in prosecuting such crimes (U visas). Work authorization shall be granted to an alien with a pending application for (1) a U visa, (2) a T visa (for victims of severe human trafficking), or (3) cancellation of removal on the basis of the alien being subjected to extreme cruelty by a spouse, parent, or fiancé. Removal shall be stayed and detention shall be prohibited for an alien with a pending application for (1) a T or U visa; (2) employment authorization for a battered spouse of certain types of nonimmigrants; (3) cancellation of removal or adjustment of status on the basis of the alien being subjected to extreme cruelty by a spouse, parent, or fiancé; (4) temporary protected status; or (5) relief under the Violence Against Women Act.
Bill· HRH.R. 4303 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2019
Bahamas TPS Act of 2019 This bill designates the Bahamas as a temporary protected status (TPS) country for 18 months from the enactment of this bill. (Qualified nationals of a TPS-designated country shall have work authorization and may not be removed from the United States while the designation is in effect.) A Bahamian national shall qualify for temporary protected status if the individual (1) has been continuously physically present in the United States since the bill's enactment, (2) meets certain admissibility and eligibility requirements generally required for such status, and (3) registers with the Department of Homeland Security.
Bill· SS. 2478 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 12 September 2019
Bahamas Temporary Protected Status Act of 2019 This bill designates the Bahamas as a temporary protected status (TPS) country for 18 months from the enactment of this bill. (Qualified nationals of a TPS-designated country shall have work authorization and may not be removed from the United States while the designation is in effect.) A Bahamian national shall qualify for temporary protected status if the individual (1) has been continuously physically present in the United States since the bill's enactment, (2) meets certain admissibility and eligibility requirements generally required for such status, and (3) registers with the Department of Homeland Security.
Bill· SJRESS.J.Res. 54 (116th)failed
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2019
This joint resolution terminates the national emergency related to the U.S.-Mexico border, declared by the President on February 15, 2019.
Bill· HRH.R. 4272 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2019
TPS for Victims of Hurricane Dorian Act of 2019 This bill designates the Bahamas as a temporary protected status (TPS) country for 18 months from the enactment of this bill. (Qualified nationals of a TPS-designated country shall have work authorization and may not be removed from the United States while the designation is in effect.) A Bahamian national shall qualify for temporary protected status if the individual (1) has been continuously physically present in the United States since the bill's enactment, (2) meets certain admissibility and eligibility requirements generally required for such status, and (3) registers with the Department of Homeland Security.
Bill· SS. 2450 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 10 September 2019
Protecting Immigrant Gold Star and Military Families Act This bill limits the deportability of certain relatives of current and former members of the Armed Forces. Certain grounds of deportability shall not apply to a qualifying alien who is (1) the spouse, widow or widower, parent, child, or sibling of a member of the Armed Forces or a veteran; or (2) eligible for a Gold Star lapel button (for certain immediate relatives of a member of the Armed Forces who died while serving). A qualifying alien is one who (1) has not have been convicted of a felony, significant misdemeanor, or three misdemeanors; and (2) is not a threat to national security or public safety.
Bill· HRH.R. 4226 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 3 September 2019
Protecting Children of Public Servants and Service Members Abroad Act of 2019 This bill nullifies certain U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidance issued on August 28, 2019, as to what constitutes residence in the United States for the purposes of acquiring citizenship. (Residence in the United States is a requirement for acquiring citizenship in certain contexts. The guidance states, among other things, that [1] temporary visits to the United States do not establish U.S. residence, and [2] USCIS no longer considers a child living abroad with a parent who is a U.S. government employee or Armed Forces member as residing in the United States when determining whether that child automatically acquires U.S. citizenship.)
Bill· HRH.R. 4218 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 August 2019
Poland Visa Waiver Act of 2019 This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security to designate Poland as a program country under the visa waiver program.
Bill· HRH.R. 4214 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 27 August 2019
Preserving Qualified Housing Assistance Act of 2019 This bill requires the Department of Homeland Security to verify the declaration of immigration status made by an individual receiving financial assistance for housing. Under current law, verification is required only if a declaration states that the individual is not a U.S. citizen or national and is younger than 62 years of age.
Bill· HRH.R. 4202 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 23 August 2019
Securing Comprehensive Review in Entry Enforcement Now Act of 2019 or the SCREEN Act of 2019 This bill provides statutory authority for a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer to conduct asylum interviews to determine whether an alien has a credible fear of persecution, provided that the officer meets existing training and supervision requirements. (Asylum officers have typically been part of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, which administers the immigration system, while the CBP is a law enforcement agency.)
Bill· HRH.R. 4151 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2019
Undocumented Taxpayers Opportunity Act of 2019 This bill allows qualified alien taxpayers to obtain provisional immigrant status and establishes procedures for provisional immigrants to obtain permanent resident status. An alien shall qualify if he or she has been assessed and paid taxes for each of the previous five years before applying for such status. The Department of Homeland Security may grant provisional immigrant status to qualified individuals who pass security checks and are not disqualified for various reasons, such as an aggravated felony conviction. DHS may waive certain disqualifications for humanitarian or public interest reasons. Provisional immigrants shall be authorized for employment in the United States and travel outside the United States. Such individuals shall be ineligible for various federal benefits, including the healthcare premium assistance tax credit. Individuals going through deportation or removal proceedings shall be given a chance to apply for provisional immigrant status if they qualify. Provisional immigrants may apply for permanent resident status, subject to various requirements, including payment of federal taxes for the each of the previous three years. An alien may not hold provisional immigrant status for more than eight years.
Bill· HRH.R. 4155 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 2 August 2019
Funding Attorneys for Indigent Removal (FAIR) Proceedings Act This bill expands access to counsel for aliens in immigration proceedings and provides for protections related to such proceedings. An alien shall have the privilege of being represented by counsel in any immigration proceeding, whereas currently this privilege is statutorily provided for only in removal proceedings. Similarly, the Department of Justice (DOJ) may provide counsel at government expense to aliens in any immigration proceeding, whereas currently DOJ is statutorily authorized to provide counsel to aliens only in removal proceedings and at no expense to the government. Under this bill, DOJ shall provide counsel to children and vulnerable individuals in such proceedings, at government expense if necessary. If DOJ fails to do so, certain limits on filing a motion to reopen removal proceedings (such as the time limit for filing) shall not apply, and the alien's removal shall be stayed upon the motion's filing. The bill establishes the Immigration Counsel Account and a surcharge on various immigration fees. The surcharge shall be deposited into the account to be used to provide counsel under this bill. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shall provide each alien, generally at the beginning of proceedings, a complete copy of the alien's case file in DHS possession, unless the alien waives this right in writing. Failure to provide such documents shall delay the alien's removal proceeding. DHS shall facilitate for all detained aliens access to counsel and programs that inform such aliens of their immigration-related rights and obligations.
Bill· SS. 2420 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 1 August 2019
End Child Trafficking Now Act This bill imposes restrictions related to adult aliens being admitted into the United States with a minor. An adult alien shall not be admitted with a minor unless the adult (1) presents documents and witness testimony proving that the adult is a relative or guardian of the minor, or (2) submits to a DNA test that proves such a relationship. The Department of Homeland Security shall request a DNA test only if the required relationship cannot be established by specified evidence. An adult alien who does not consent to a requested DNA test shall be inadmissible. If the required relationship cannot be established and the immigration officer believes the alien is guilty of a felony offense, the officer may arrest the alien adult. The bill makes it a crime for an alien adult to knowingly use a minor to whom the adult is not a relative or guardian to enter the United States.
Bill· SS. 2396 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2019
Protecting the Rights of Families and Immigrants Who Legally Entered from Detention Act or the PROFILED Act This bill establishes a framework to eliminate racial profiling at the federal, state, and local levels. It also addresses the rights of individuals during immigration-related enforcement activities. First, the bill requires federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to maintain policies and procedures to eliminate racial profiling, including training, data collection, and complaint procedures. To enforce violations, the bill authorizes civil suits by the Department of Justice and affected individuals. Next, it requires that law enforcement agents give notice to individuals suspected of immigration violations of their right to counsel (at no expense to the federal government), the right to remain silent, and notice that any statements given by the individual can be used against them in a removal or criminal proceeding. Any evidence obtained in violation of this requirement cannot be used against the individual in a removal proceeding. Not later than 48 hours after an individual has been detained, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shall file a notice to appear with the closest immigration court. Further, the bill requires a detained individual to have access to a telephone. In addition, the bill defines various rights accorded to vulnerable populations and to parents who have been detained by immigration officers. Finally, the position of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Ombudsman is established in DHS.
Bill· SS. 2389 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 31 July 2019
Funding Attorneys for Indigent Removal Proceedings Act or the FAIR Proceedings Act This bill expands access to counsel for aliens in immigration proceedings and provides for protections related to such proceedings. An alien shall have the privilege of being represented by counsel in any immigration proceeding, whereas currently this privilege is statutorily provided for only in removal proceedings. Similarly, the Department of Justice (DOJ) may provide counsel at government expense to aliens in any immigration proceeding, whereas currently DOJ is statutorily authorized to provide counsel to aliens only in removal proceedings and at no expense to the government. Under this bill, DOJ shall provide counsel to children and vulnerable individuals in such proceedings, at government expense if necessary. If DOJ fails to do so, certain limits on filing a motion to reopen removal proceedings (such as the time limit for filing) shall not apply, and the alien's removal shall be stayed upon the motion's filing. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shall provide each alien, generally at the beginning of proceedings, a complete copy of the alien's case file in DHS possession, unless the alien waives this right in writing. Failure to provide such documents shall delay the alien's removal proceeding. DHS shall facilitate for all detained aliens access to counsel and programs that inform such aliens of their immigration-related rights and obligations.
Bill· SS. 2336 (116th)open
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2019
Department of Veterans Affairs Information Technology Reform Act of 2019 This bill revises several policies and procedures related to the management of information technology projects and programs of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Among other requirements, the bill requires the VA to do the following: update the review process for information technology projects to ensure active risks are factored into the Information Technology Dashboard Chief Information Officer ratings; submit a plan for expenditures relating to large information technology projects and investments; include a specific accounting of funds requested for VA information technology programs in budget justification materials; comply with applicable requirements of the Data Center Optimization Initiative of the Office of Management and Budget; submit a comprehensive, prioritized list of information technology projects being funded by the VA; assess information technology investments to determine the suitability of the investments for migration to a cloud computing service; create a mechanism to track savings and cost avoidances from migration to cloud computing services and deployment of such services; ensure that information technology management policies address the role of the Chief Information Officer with respect to key responsibilities; develop a continuous monitoring strategy to address organization metrics, frequency of monitoring metrics, ongoing status monitoring of metrics, and reporting of security status; and revise Office of Information and Technology processes relating to risk management. The bill also requires the Government Accountability Office to review the VA's updated processes related to the review of information technology projects and risk management.
Bill· HRH.R. 4112 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 30 July 2019
This bill designates Haiti as a temporary protected status (TPS) country from this bill's enactment date to at least 18 months after the conclusion of two lawsuits challenging the President's decision to terminate Haiti's TPS designation. (Nationals of a TPS-designated country shall have work authorization and may not be removed from the United States while the designation is in effect.)
Bill· HRH.R. 4030 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2019
Asylum Abuse Reduction Act This bill places restrictions on aliens seeking asylum and contains provisions related to immigration enforcement. Under this bill, an asylum seeker who arrives at a U.S. land port of entry without entry documents may not be admitted unless an asylum officer at a U.S. consulate or embassy has interviewed the alien in person and concluded that the alien (1) has been persecuted in the alien's country of origin due to race, religion, or other characteristics; or (2) would be tortured upon return to that country. (Currently, an alien arriving at a port of entry may apply for asylum, and an immigration officer there typically will give the alien a credible fear interview.) Furthermore, an alien who traveled through a third country to enter the United States through the southern border shall be ineligible for asylum unless (1) the alien has applied for and been denied asylum or protection in that third country, (2) the alien was a victim of severe human trafficking, or (3) the third country is not party to certain international agreements relating to refugees. The Department of Homeland Security shall establish an alternatives to detention pilot program available to aliens who (1) certify that they will comply with all immigration proceedings, (2) agree to only a single appeal of an immigration judge decision, and (3) sign a privacy waiver. Each federal judicial district shall appoint at least one magistrate judge to issue arrest warrants for individuals violating orders to depart, upon a showing of probable cause.
Bill· HRH.R. 3990 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2019
Operation Stonegarden Authorization Act This bill provides statutory authorization for the Operation Stonegarden grant program within the Department of Homeland Security. Through the program, the Federal Emergency Management Agency shall provide grants for enhancing border security to law enforcement agencies that are (1) in a state with an international land or maritime border, and (2) involved in an active U.S. Customs and Border Protection operation coordinated through the Border Patrol.
Bill· HRH.R. 3968 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2019
Eradicate Crossing of Illegal Tunnels Act of 2019 or the EXIT Act of 2019 This bill authorizes the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to take various actions to facilitate the search for and remediation of unlawful border crossing tunnels on private land. Specifically, DHS may waive federal, state, or local environmental permits and reviews as necessary to search for or remediate such tunnels. U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement may enter into indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contracts with two or more sources to facilitate such border tunnel activities. (Indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contracts provide for an indefinite quantity of services for a fixed time.)
Bill· HRH.R. 3964 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2019
Justice for Victims of Sanctuary Cities Act of 2019 This bill provides a private right of action against state and local jurisdictions with certain policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement efforts, and contains additional provisions related to such jurisdictions. Currently, such cooperation is generally not required. An individual (or certain relatives of such an individual) who is the victim of any felony for which an alien has been arrested, convicted, or sentenced to a prison term of at least one year may sue a state or local jurisdiction if the jurisdiction failed to comply with (1) certain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) requests related to arresting and detaining aliens, and (2) a DHS request to detain the alien in question or provide a notification about the release of the alien. A jurisdiction that accepts certain federal grants may not assert immunity in such a civil action. A jurisdiction (or employee of a jurisdiction) that complies with certain DHS detainer requests shall be deemed to be acting as an agent of DHS. A complying jurisdiction or employee of the jurisdiction shall not be liable in any lawsuit relating to compliance with such requests. In a lawsuit against an employee of the jurisdiction, the United States shall be substituted in as the defendant, and remedies shall be limited to provisions for bringing tort claims against the federal government.
Bill· SS. 2292 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 25 July 2019
Asylum Abuse Reduction Act This bill places restrictions on aliens seeking asylum and contains provisions related to immigration enforcement. Under this bill, an asylum seeker who arrives at a U.S. land port of entry without entry documents may not be admitted unless an asylum officer at a U.S. consulate or embassy has interviewed the alien in person and concluded that the alien (1) has been persecuted in the alien's country of origin due to race, religion, or other characteristics; or (2) would be tortured upon return to that country. (Currently, an alien arriving at a port of entry may apply for asylum, and an immigration officer there typically will give the alien a credible fear interview.) Furthermore, an alien who traveled through a third country to enter the United States through the southern border shall be ineligible for asylum unless (1) the alien has applied for and been denied asylum or protection in that third country, (2) the alien was a victim of severe human trafficking, or (3) the third country is not party to certain international agreements relating to refugees. The Department of Homeland Security shall establish an alternatives to detention pilot program available to aliens who (1) certify that they will comply with all immigration proceedings, (2) agree to only a single appeal of an immigration judge decision, and (3) sign a privacy waiver. Each federal judicial district shall appoint at least one magistrate judge to issue arrest warrants for individuals violating orders to depart, upon a showing of probable cause.
Bill· HRH.R. 3940 (116th)referred
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2019
Protection of Children Act of 2019 This bill requires the removal of unaccompanied alien children in certain instances and amends related provisions. An immigration officer must return an unaccompanied child apprehended at a land border to the child's country of nationality or last habitual residence if the child (1) is not a victim of severe trafficking, and (2) does not have a credible fear of persecution. Currently, an immigration officer may return the child only if such criteria is met and the child is from a contiguous country and able to make an independent decision to withdraw a petition for admission into the United States. If the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has determined that an unaccompanied child is a victim of severe trafficking or has a credible fear of persecution and DHS seeks to remove that child, removal proceedings with a hearing before an immigration judge shall be held within 14 days of the determination. Such a child shall have access to counsel, to the greatest extent practicable, and at no expense to the government. (Currently, the statute does not prohibit the government from bearing the expenses for such counsel.) The bill extends and removes certain deadlines for transferring an unaccompanied alien child to Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) custody. HHS, before placing a child with an individual, shall provide DHS with certain information about the individual. If the individual's immigration status is unknown, DHS shall investigate and initiate removal proceedings if the individual is unlawfully present.
Resolution· HRESH.Res. 519 (116th)passed
United States · United States Congress · 24 July 2019
Sets forth the rule for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3877) to amend the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, to establish a congressional budget for fiscal years 2020 and 2021, to temporarily suspend the debt limit, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 549) to designate Venezuela under section 244 of the Immigration and Nationality Act to permit nationals of Venezuela to be eligible for temporary protected status under such section, and for other purposes; and waiving a requirement of clause 6(a) of rule XIII with respect to consideration of certain resolutions reported from the Committee on Rules.