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Changes to Conviction Definition for Immigration Purposes

This bill alters how immigration courts view past criminal convictions. It aims to make it easier for individuals with a criminal history to avoid deportation if their conviction has been dismissed or if a court recommends against their removal. This means some past legal issues might not impact immigration status as they previously would have.
Key points
Dismissed, annulled, or pardoned convictions will not be considered a "conviction" for immigration cases.
Courts can recommend against an individual's removal, even with a conviction, potentially helping them stay in the U.S.
These changes apply retroactively to convictions entered before, on, or after the law's enactment date.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_5517
Sponsor: Rep. Espaillat, Adriano [D-NY-13]
Process start date: 2021-10-08
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Fair Adjudications for Immigrants Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_5517.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-10-08.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Dismissed, annulled, or pardoned convictions will not be considered a "conviction" for immigration cases.
  • Courts can recommend against an individual's removal, even with a conviction, potentially helping them stay in the U.S.
  • These changes apply retroactively to convictions entered before, on, or after the law's enactment date.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Espaillat, Adriano [D-NY-13].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Migration Courts and Law