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Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act of 2021
12/30/2022, 8:18 AM
Summary of Bill HR 6078
Key provisions of the bill include:
1. Granting temporary immigration status to immigrant witnesses and victims of crimes, allowing them to remain in the United States while their cases are being investigated and prosecuted. 2. Providing access to legal services and support for immigrant witnesses and victims, including assistance with navigating the legal system and obtaining necessary documentation. 3. Prohibiting the use of immigration status as a basis for denying protection or services to immigrant witnesses and victims. 4. Establishing a task force to coordinate efforts to protect immigrant witnesses and victims, and to ensure that they receive the support they need to participate in the criminal justice process. Overall, the Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act of 2021 seeks to address the unique challenges faced by immigrant witnesses and victims of crimes, and to ensure that they are able to seek justice without fear of reprisal.
Congressional Summary of HR 6078
Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act of 2021
This bill provides protections for certain aliens who are victims of crimes or abuse and addresses related issues.
The bill removes various annual numerical limits on (1) U visas, generally for victims of a serious crime and helpful to law enforcement in prosecuting the crime; and (2) Special Immigrant Juvenile visas, generally for minors who have been abused or neglected by a parent.
Applicants for certain immigration benefits, including U visas and T visas (generally for victims of severe human trafficking) shall receive work authorization on the date the application is approved or earlier.
Removal shall be stayed for an alien with certain pending applications, such as an application for a T, U, or Special Juvenile Immigrant visa or for relief under the Violence Against Women Act. There shall be a presumption against detaining such an alien, which the Department of Homeland Security may rebut by establishing that (1) the alien's appearance at removal proceedings is not reasonably assured, or (2) the alien is a threat to another person or the community.
The bill also prohibits making an adverse determination regarding an alien's admissibility or deportability based on information furnished by certain individuals, such as a spouse or parent who has battered the alien. Current law prohibits making an adverse determination using information furnished solely by such an individual.
The bill also limits the use and publication of information provided in certain applications, including T, U, and Special Juvenile Immigrant visa applications.
