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Uniting Families Act of 2021

12/31/2022, 5:06 AM

Summary of Bill HR 4522

Bill 117 HR 4522, also known as the Uniting Families Act of 2021, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to address issues related to family reunification and immigration.

The Uniting Families Act of 2021 aims to make it easier for US citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor their family members for immigration to the United States. The bill proposes changes to the current immigration system that would streamline the process for family members to reunite with their loved ones in the US.

Specifically, the bill seeks to reduce the backlog of family-based visa applications, increase the number of available visas for family reunification, and shorten the waiting times for family members seeking to immigrate to the US. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to protect the rights of immigrant families and ensure that they are treated fairly and with dignity throughout the immigration process. Overall, the Uniting Families Act of 2021 is aimed at promoting family unity and strengthening the US immigration system. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to address the current challenges faced by immigrant families and to uphold the values of compassion and inclusivity in US immigration policy. Opponents of the bill may argue that it could lead to an increase in immigration levels and strain on the US immigration system. As of now, the bill is still in the early stages of the legislative process and has not yet been passed into law. It is important for citizens to stay informed about the progress of the bill and to engage with their elected representatives to voice their opinions on this important issue.

Congressional Summary of HR 4522

Uniting Families Act of 2021

This bill establishes a nonimmigrant visa category for the adult alien children of a U.S. citizen who served in the Armed Forces.

To obtain a visa, the alien's citizen parent must petition and receive approval from the Department of Homeland Security. The petition shall include (1) DNA evidence establishing the parent-child relationship, (2) a written statement that the parent will provide financial support until the alien receives lawful permanent resident status, and (3) proof of the parent's U.S. citizenship and active duty with the Armed Forces abroad.

If the parent is deceased, an adult sibling of the alien may file the petition if the sibling is capable of providing financial support until the alien receives lawful permanent status. Such a petition must include evidence that the petitioner and the alien are siblings, such as birth certificates showing at least one common parent.

The period of authorized admission for aliens with the visa is five years, and 5,000 principal aliens may be admitted each fiscal year. Holders of such a visa may adjust to lawful permanent resident status after meeting various requirements, such as being admissible as an immigrant.

Current Status of Bill HR 4522

Bill HR 4522 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since July 19, 2021. Bill HR 4522 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on July 19, 2021.  Bill HR 4522's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship. as of November 1, 2022

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 4522

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
2
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
2
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 4522

Primary Policy Focus

Immigration

Potential Impact Areas

- Citizenship and naturalization
- Immigration status and procedures
- Military personnel and dependents
- Visas and passports

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 4522

To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to provide for the admission of certain sons and daughters of citizens of the United States, which citizens served on active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States abroad, and for other purposes.
Uniting Families Act of 2021
Uniting Families Act of 2021

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