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A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to require a DNA test to determine the familial relationship between an alien and an accompanying minor.

1/10/2025, 11:56 AM

Summary of Bill S 52

Bill 119 s 52, also known as the DNA Testing for Family Reunification Act, is a proposed amendment to the Immigration and Nationality Act that would require a DNA test to determine the familial relationship between an alien (non-citizen) and an accompanying minor seeking entry into the United States.

The bill aims to address concerns about human trafficking and fraudulent claims of family relationships in the immigration system. By requiring DNA testing, officials would be able to verify the biological relationship between the adult and minor, ensuring that minors are not being exploited or used as pawns to gain entry into the country.

If passed, the bill would mandate that DNA testing be conducted by a qualified laboratory and that the results be submitted as part of the immigration application process. The cost of the DNA testing would be the responsibility of the adult seeking entry with the minor. Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary measure to protect vulnerable children and prevent abuse of the immigration system. Critics, however, raise concerns about the potential cost and logistical challenges of implementing widespread DNA testing for all immigrant families. Overall, Bill 119 s 52 represents a significant proposed change to the immigration process, with the potential to impact thousands of families seeking entry into the United States.

Congressional Summary of S 52

End Child Trafficking Now Act

This bill imposes restrictions related to adult non-U.S. nationals (aliens under federal law) being admitted into the United States with a minor.

Such an adult may 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 may request a DNA test only if the required relationship cannot be established by the presented documents and witness testimony. An adult 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 adult is guilty of a felony offense, the officer may arrest the adult.

The bill makes it a crime for an adult to knowingly use a minor to whom the adult is not a relative or guardian to enter the United States.

Current Status of Bill S 52

Bill S 52 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 9, 2025. Bill S 52 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the Senate on January 9, 2025.  Bill S 52's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. as of January 9, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 52

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
10
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
10
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 52

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 52

A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to require a DNA test to determine the familial relationship between an alien and an accompanying minor.
A bill to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to require a DNA test to determine the familial relationship between an alien and an accompanying minor.

Comments

Catherine Norman profile image

Catherine Norman

620

1 year ago

This bill is so sad, it's like they don't care about families at all. Why do they want to make it harder for people to be together? It's not fair to make people take a DNA test just to prove they're related. It's gonna cause so much pain and separation, it's not right. #StopS52

Harley Bland profile image

Harley Bland

559

1 year ago

This bill is so dumb, like seriously? DNA tests for immigrants and minors? What a waste of time and money. It's just another way to make life harder for people trying to seek asylum and reunite with their families. SMH.