Grant Integrity and Border Security Act
2/6/2025, 8:59 PMSummary of Bill HR 245
Bill 119 HR 245, also known as the "Federal Grant Certification Act," aims to require any organization or individual applying for a federal grant to certify that they are not in violation of section 274(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This section of the law pertains to the employment of unauthorized immigrants.The purpose of this bill is to ensure that federal grant funds are not being used by organizations or individuals who are employing individuals who are not legally authorized to work in the United States. By requiring applicants to certify their compliance with this section of the law, the bill seeks to promote accountability and adherence to immigration laws among recipients of federal grant funds.
In addition to the certification requirement, the bill may also include provisions for enforcement mechanisms and penalties for organizations or individuals found to be in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This could include the potential for grant funds to be revoked or other consequences for non-compliance. Overall, the Federal Grant Certification Act is aimed at promoting compliance with immigration laws among recipients of federal grant funds and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are not being used to support organizations or individuals who are not following the law.
Congressional Summary of HR 245
Grant Integrity and Border Security Act
This bill requires an applicant for a federal grant to certify that the applicant has not violated in the last 10 years, is not currently violating, and will not violate during the term of the grant the federal criminal prohibition against bringing into the United States or harboring certain non-U.S. nationals (i.e., aliens under federal law). Upon determination by the granting agency that a grantee is in violation of this bill, the agency must withhold any federal grant funds from the grantee.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) must report to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) individuals convicted of, or who admitted to, such a violation. Additionally, the DOJ must report to OMB if DOJ believes there is a reasonable basis to conclude that an individual has committed such a violation.
