Limiting US Entry Bans and Protecting Against Discrimination
New rules restrict the President's ability to impose entry bans to the US based on national origin, religion, or place of residence. They introduce greater transparency and Congressional oversight over such decisions, and make it easier to apply for waivers from bans. Citizens gain more protection against arbitrary decisions regarding entry and immigration benefits.
Key points
Non-discrimination: Visa, admission, or immigration benefits cannot be denied based on national origin, sex, religion, or place of residence.
Limited Presidential Authority: The President can only suspend entry in specific, justified cases that threaten security or public safety, and such suspensions must be narrowly tailored and time-limited.
Increased Congressional Oversight: The President must consult Congress before imposing a ban and regularly report on its effects; otherwise, the ban terminates.
Easier Waivers: The act presumes in favor of granting family-based and humanitarian waivers from restrictions.
Right to Judicial Review: Individuals harmed by unlawful actions under this subsection can file a lawsuit in court.
2021-04-21
For
218
Against
208
Abstain
0
Full voting results
open_in_new
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_1333
Sponsor: Rep. Chu, Judy [D-CA-27]
Process start date: 2021-02-25
Voting date: 2021-04-21
Meeting no: 1
Voting no: 127