Support for Immigrant Survivors of Violence: New Rules and Protections
This act aims to ease immigration status acquisition for individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or other crimes. Changes include faster work permits, protection from deportation, and broader access to social benefits and healthcare for affected immigrants and their families.
Key points
Faster Work Permits: Victims of violence will be able to obtain work authorization more quickly, providing financial independence.
Protection from Deportation: Individuals applying for immigration status due to being victims of violence will be protected from deportation while their applications are processed.
Broader Access to Benefits: The act expands access to social assistance programs, healthcare, and nutrition programs for immigrant victims of violence.
Restrictions on Immigration Enforcement: Limitations are placed on immigration enforcement actions in "protected areas" (e.g., schools, hospitals, churches), unless exigent circumstances exist.
Easier Naturalization Process: Survivors of domestic violence will have an easier path to obtaining U.S. citizenship.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_5145
Sponsor: Rep. Jayapal, Pramila [D-WA-7]
Process start date: 2023-08-04