Fairness for Immigrant Families Act of 2026

[Congressional Bills 119th Congress] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office] [S. 5138 Introduced in Senate (IS)]

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119th CONGRESS 2d Session S. 5138

To protect immigrant families, combat fraud, promote citizenship, and build community trust, and for other purposes.

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IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES

July 27, 2026

Ms. Cortez Masto introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary

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A BILL

To protect immigrant families, combat fraud, promote citizenship, and build community trust, and for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Fairness for Immigrant Families Act of 2026''. (b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Findings. Sec. 3. Definitions. TITLE I--PROTECTING IMMIGRANT FAMILIES

Subtitle A--Expansion of Admissibility

Sec. 101. Promoting family unity. Sec. 102. Extension of the application period for certain aliens present in the United States for adjustment of status. Subtitle B--Relief From Removal

Sec. 111. Individuals previously removed. Sec. 112. Expansion of cancellation of removal. Sec. 113. Prohibition on removal of certain aliens. Sec. 114. Motions to reopen in cases involving fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, extortion, and unauthorized practice of law. Sec. 115. Withdrawal without penalty in cases involving fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, extortion, and unauthorized practice of law. Subtitle C--Provisions Relating to Removal of Parents of United States Citizens

Sec. 121. Review of and reporting on removal of parents of United States citizens. Sec. 122. Report on enforcement actions against certain immigrants. Sec. 123. Report on United States citizens detained or deported. Sec. 124. Protections for United States citizen children abroad. TITLE II--COMBATING FRAUD AND PROMOTING CITIZENSHIP

Sec. 201. Combating immigration services fraud. Sec. 202. Requirements for immigration consultants. Sec. 203. Fee and backlog transparency. TITLE III--BUILDING COMMUNITY TRUST

Sec. 301. Protecting aliens who are victims of or witnesses to crimes or are defending civil rights. Sec. 302. Rule of construction.

SEC. 2. FINDINGS.

Congress makes the following findings: (1) Immigration plays a defining role in the identity of the United States. Families throughout the United States have roots in the immigration experience of earlier generations of immigrants who came to the United States seeking better opportunities, safety from persecution, and ultimately, a chance at the American dream. (2) While the ancestors of some families arrived in the United States centuries ago, other families are continuing that tradition today. There are 51,900,000 immigrants who live in the United States. The immigrant population of the United States comprises 15 percent of the population, while another 13 percent of the population are second-generation Americans. There are 18,310,000 children in the United States who live with 1 or more immigrant parents, representing 26.5 percent of all children. (3) In the United States-- (A) 26,000,000 individuals live in a household with 1 or more family members who are not authorized to be in the United States; and (B) 4,600,000 United States citizen children live in a household with 1 or more family members who are not authorized to be in the United States. (4) Children of immigrants are the future workers, leaders, voters, parents, and taxpayers of the United States and are critical to the health and well-being of the United States. (5) In their pursuit of the American dream, generations of immigrant families have contributed to their communities in the United States and will continue to do so, including as essential workers who keep the United States running at great risk to themselves and their families. (6) Immigrants play a critical role in the United States economy, and providing a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants is a necessary part of maintaining the economic strength of the United States. (7) Immigrant entrepreneurs account for more than 30 percent of all new business owners in the United States. In 2025, 231 of the companies listed on the Fortune 500 were founded by immigrants or children of immigrants. (8) As of 2023, approximately 9,700,000 workers in the United States were undocumented immigrants. Undocumented immigrants contributed more than $37,000,000,000 in State and local taxes in 2022. (9) Removing undocumented residents from mixed-status households cuts the median income of such households by 48 percent. (10) Removing 8,300,000 undocumented workers from the workforce would reduce gross domestic product by as much as 7.4 percent by 2028. (11) Approximately 1,500,000 mortgages are held by households with 1 or more undocumented individuals. (12) Indiscriminate immigration enforcement and the threat of immigration enforcement negatively impact the health, development, and well-being of children at risk of separation from a loved one due to detention or removal from the United States. Neurobiological research demonstrates the acute and lasting trauma that family separation, and the threat of separation, causes in children, such as changes in the architecture of the brain and increased likelihood to experience emotional and behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and suicidal ideation.

SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.

In this Act: (1) In general.--Except as otherwise specifically provided, any term used in this Act that is used in the immigration laws shall have the meaning given the term in the immigration laws. (2) DACA recipient.--The term ``DACA recipient'' means an alien who has been granted deferred action pursuant to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, as set forth in the final rule issued by the Department of Homeland Security and entitled ``Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals'' (87 Fed. Reg. 53152 (August 30, 2022)). (3) Immigration laws.--The term ``immigration laws'' has the meaning given the term in section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)).

TITLE I--PROTECTING IMMIGRANT FAMILIES

Subtitle A--Expansion of Admissibility

SEC. 101. PROMOTING FAMILY UNITY.

(a) Elimination of 3-Year and 10-Year Bars and Modification of Permanent Bar.--Section 212(a)(9) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(9)) is amended-- (1) by striking subparagraph (B); (2) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (B); and (3) in subparagraph (B), as so redesignated-- (A) by amending clause (i) to read as follows: ``(i) In general.--Any alien who knows he or she has received a final order of removal under section 240, and who enters or attempts to reenter the United States without being admitted, is inadmissible.''; (B) by amending clause (ii) to read as follows: ``(ii) Exceptions.-- ``(I) Consent to reapplication for admission.--Clause (i) shall not apply to an alien seeking admission on a date that is more than 3 years after the date on which the alien last departed the United States if the Secretary of Homeland Security has consented to a reapplication for admission by the alien. ``(II) Minors.--Clause (i) shall not apply to an alien who is under 21 years of age. ``(III) Asylees.--Clause (i) shall not apply to an alien who has a bona fide application for asylum pending under section 208 or a bona fide application for withholding of removal under section 241(b)(3). ``(IV) Family unity.--Clause (i) shall not apply to an alien who is a beneficiary of family unity protection pursuant to section 301 of the Immigration Act of 1990 (8 U.S.C. 1255a note). ``(V) Victims of a severe form of trafficking in persons.--Clause (i) shall not apply to an alien who demonstrates that 1 or more severe forms of trafficking in persons (as defined in section 103 of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7102)) was a central reason for the unlawful presence of the alien in the United States. ``(VI) Aliens who entered as children.--Clause (i) shall not apply to an alien who-- ``(aa) is the beneficiary of an approved petition under section 101(a)(15)(H); ``(bb)(AA) is in school, has graduated from high school, has obtained a general education development certificate recognized under State law or a high school equivalency diploma; or ``(BB) is serving in the Armed Forces (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code) or is an honorably discharged veteran of the Armed Forces; and ``(cc) had not yet reached the age of 16 years on the date on which the alien initially entered the United States.''; and (C) in clause (iii)-- (i) by redesignating subclauses (I) and (II) as items (aa) and (bb), respectively, and moving such items, as redesignated, 2 ems to the right; (ii) by striking the clause designation and heading and all that follows through ``Security'' and insert the following: ``(iii) Waivers.-- ``(I) VAWA self-petitioners.--The Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security, as applicable,''; and (iii) by adding at the end the following: ``(II) Extreme hardship.--The Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security may, in the discretion of the Attorney General or the Secretary, waive clause (i) in the case of an alien who is the parent, spouse, or son or daughter of a United States citizen or of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence if it is established to the satisfaction of the Attorney General or the Secretary that a denial of admission to the alien would result in extreme hardship to the United States citizen or lawfully admitted permanent resident son or daughter, spouse, or parent of the alien.''. (b) Misrepresentation of Citizenship.--The Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) is amended-- (1) in section 212 (8 U.S.C. 1182)-- (A) in subsection (a)(6)(C)-- (i) by amending clause (ii) to read as follows: ``(ii) Misrepresentation of citizenship.-- ``(I) In general.--Any alien who knowingly and willfully misrepresents, or has knowingly and willfully misrepresented, himself or herself to be a citizen of the United States for any purpose or benefit under this Act (including section 274A) or any Federal or State law is inadmissible. ``(II) Exceptions.-- ``(aa) Children.--In the case of an alien who was under the age of 21 years at the time of making a misrepresentation described in subclause (I), the alien shall not be considered to be inadmissible under any provision of this subsection based on such misrepresentation. ``(bb) VAWA self- petitioners.--An alien who is a VAWA self-petitioner shall not be considered to be inadmissible under any provision of this subsection based on a misrepresentation that is connected to the alien's abuse.''; and (ii) in clause (iii), by striking ``of clause (i)''; and (B) by amending subsection (i)(1) to read as follows: ``(i)(1) The Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security may, in the discretion of the Attorney General or the Secretary, waive the application of subsection (a)(6)(C) in the case of an alien who is the parent, spouse, or son or daughter of a United States citizen or of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence and in the case of an alien who is an alien granted classification under clause (iii) or (iv) of section 204(a)(1)(A), if it is established to the satisfaction of the Attorney General or the Secretary that the admission to the United States of such alien would not be contrary to the national welfare, safety, or security of the United States.''; and (2) by amending section 237(a)(3)(D) (8 U.S.C. 1227(a)(3)(D)) to read as follows: ``(D) Misrepresentation of citizenship.-- ``(i) In general.--Any alien who knowingly and willfully misrepresents, or has knowingly and willfully misrepresented, himself or herself to be a citizen of the United States for any purpose or benefit under this Act (including section 274A) or any Federal or State law is deportable. ``(ii) Exceptions.-- ``(I) Children.--In the case of an alien who was under the age of 21 years at the time of making a misrepresentation described in clause (i), the alien shall not be considered to be deportable under any provision of this subsection based on such misrepresentation. ``(II) VAWA self-petitioners.--An alien who is a VAWA self-petitioner shall not be considered to be deportable under any provision of this subsection based on a misrepresentation that is connected to the alien's abuse.''. (c) Conforming Amendments.-- (1) Section 214(q) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1184(q)) is amended-- (A) by striking paragraph (2); (B) in paragraph (3)(C), by striking ``paragraphs (6)(A), (7), and (9)(B)'' and inserting ``paragraphs (6)(A) and (7)''; and (C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2). (2) Section 245(h)(2)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1255(h)(2)(A)) is amended by striking ``(7)(A), and (9)(B)'' and inserting ``and (7)(A)''. (3) Section 248(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1258(a)) is amended, in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``and who is not inadmissible under section 212(a)(9)(B)(i)'' and all that follows through ``section 212(a)(9)(B)(v))''.

SEC. 102. EXTENSION OF THE APPLICATION PERIOD FOR CERTAIN ALIENS PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES FOR ADJUSTMENT OF STATUS.

Section 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1255(i)) is amended-- (1) in paragraph (1)-- (A) in subparagraph (A), in the undesignated matter following clause (ii), by striking the semicolon and inserting ``; and''; (B) in subparagraph (B)-- (i) in clause (i), by striking ``April 30, 2001'' and inserting ``the date that is not later than 5 years after the date of the enactment of the Fairness for Immigrant Families Act of 2026''; and (ii) in clause (ii), by striking ``; and'' and inserting a period; and (C) by striking subparagraph (C); and (2) by amending paragraph (3)(B) to read as follows: ``(B) Any remaining portion of such fees remitted under such paragraphs shall be deposited into the Immigration Examinations Fee Account established under section 286(m).''.

Subtitle B--Relief From Removal

SEC. 111. INDIVIDUALS PREVIOUSLY REMOVED.

(a) Discretionary Reinstatement of Removal Orders.--Section 241(a)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1231(a)(5)) is amended-- (1) by striking ``If the Attorney General'' and inserting the following: ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), if the Secretary of Homeland Security''; and (2) by adding at the end the following: ``(B) Exceptions.-- ``(i) In general.--Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to an alien-- ``(I) who has not attained the age of 21 years on the date on which the alien reenters the United States; or ``(II) the reinstatement of the prior order of removal of whom-- ``(aa) is not in the public interest; ``(bb) would result in hardship to the United States citizen or lawful permanent resident parent, spouse, or child of the alien; or ``(cc) would prevent consideration of an application for asylum that has not been previously adjudicated. ``(ii) Rule of construction.--For purposes of this paragraph, family separation shall be considered-- ``(I) not in the public interest; and ``(II) a hardship.''. (b) Motions To Reopen and Reconsider.--Section 240(c) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1229a(c)) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(8) Special rule for relatives of united states citizens.-- ``(A) In general.--Notwithstanding subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (6) and subparagraphs (A) and (C) of paragraph (7)-- ``(i) an alien described in subparagraph (B) may file a motion to reconsider under paragraph (6) or a motion to reopen under paragraph (7) at any time and without numerical limitation; and ``(ii) the Attorney General shall consider any such motion. ``(B) Alien described.--An alien described in this subparagraph is an alien who is-- ``(i) outside the United States after having been excluded, deported, or removed from, or ordered to voluntarily depart, the United States on or after January 20, 2025; and ``(ii) the spouse, child, or parent of a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence. ``(C) Treatment of physical presence.--For purposes of any physical presence or continuous residence requirement for relief under the immigration laws, with respect to an alien described in subparagraph (B), a period outside the United States after having been excluded, deported, or removed from, or ordered to voluntarily depart the United States on or after January 20, 2025, shall not be considered to toll or break the alien's physical presence or continuous residence in the United States.''.

SEC. 112. EXPANSION OF CANCELLATION OF REMOVAL.

(a) In General.--Section 240A of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1229b) is amended-- (1) in subsection (b)-- (A) in paragraph (1)-- (i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``10'' and inserting ``7''; and (ii) by amending subparagraph (D) to read as follows: ``(D) establishes that removal would result in extreme hardship to-- ``(i) the alien; or ``(ii) the alien's spouse, parent, or child who is a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence.''; and (B) by adding at the end the following: ``(7) Waiver of extreme hardship.--The Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security may, in the discretion of the Attorney General or the Secretary, waive the application of subsection (b)(1)(D) in the case of an alien who is the parent, spouse, or son or daughter of a United States citizen or of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence and in the case of an alien who is an alien granted classification under clause (iii) or (iv) of section 204(a)(1)(A), if it is established to the satisfaction of the Attorney General or the Secretary that the admission to the United States of such alien would not be contrary to the national welfare, safety, or security of the United States. ``(8) Affirmative application process.-- ``(A) In general.--The Secretary of Homeland Security may cancel the removal of, and adjust to the status of an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, an alien described in paragraph (1) or (2), who-- ``(i) demonstrates that the alien is the spouse, parent, son or daughter, or legal guardian of a citizen of the United States; and ``(ii) submits to the Secretary of Homeland Security an application at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Secretary may reasonably require. ``(B) Numerical limitations.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, an alien admitted to the United States under this section shall not be subject to any numerical limitation.''; and (2) by striking subsection (e). (b) Regulations.--Not later than 9 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall promulgate final regulations setting forth procedures and requirements with respect to the processing and adjudication of affirmative applications for cancellation of removal under paragraph (7) of section 240A(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1229b(b)), as added by subsection (a)(1)(B).

SEC. 113. PROHIBITION ON REMOVAL OF CERTAIN ALIENS.

(a) In General.--Section 235 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1225) is amended-- (1) in the section heading, by inserting ``; prohibition on removal'' after ``hearing''; and (2) by adding at the end the following: ``(e) Prohibition on Removal of Aliens With Certain Pending Petitions and Applications.-- ``(1) Beneficiaries of petitions for immigrant visas.--An alien who is the beneficiary (including a spouse or child of the principal alien, if eligible to receive a visa under section 203(d)) of a petition for classification under section 204 or for classification as a VAWA self-petitioner that was filed with the Secretary of Homeland Security and who is prima facie eligible for approval may not be removed while such petition or application is pending or a decision on such petition or application is on appeal. ``(2) Applicants for certain nonimmigrant and special immigrant classifications and cancellation of removal.--An applicant for classification as a nonimmigrant described in subparagraph (T), (U), or (V) of section 101(a)(15), an applicant for classification as a special immigrant under section 101(a)(27)(J), or an applicant for cancellation of removal under section 240A may not be removed while such application is pending or a decision on such application is on appeal. ``(3) Stay of removal.--An individual who is prima facie eligible to receive a visa under section 203(d) of a petition for classification under section 204 due to the changes enacted by the Fairness for Immigrant Families Act of 2026, or who is prima facie eligible to apply for cancellation of removal under the changes enacted by such Act may not be removed during the period beginning on the date of the enactment of such Act and ending on the date that is 6 months after the date on which the rules for the implementation of such provisions are finalized. ``(f) Prohibition on Removal of DACA Recipients.--An alien who has an active grant of deferred action pursuant to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, as set forth in the final rule issued by the Department of Homeland Security and entitled `Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals' (87 Fed. Reg. 53152 (August 30, 2022)), or whose application for renewal of such deferred action is pending adjudication by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, may not be removed. ``(g) Presumption of Non-Detention.--There shall be a presumption of nondetention for individuals described in subsections (e) and (f). This presumption shall not apply if the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or an immigration judge specifically determines that the alien is a threat to himself or herself, the public, or national security.''. (b) Conforming Amendment.--The table of contents at the beginning of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) is amended by striking the item relating to section 235 and inserting the following:

``Sec. 235. Inspection by immigration officers; expedited removal of inadmissible arriving aliens; referral for hearing; prohibition on removal.''.

SEC. 114. MOTIONS TO REOPEN IN CASES INVOLVING FRAUD, NEGLIGENCE, MISREPRESENTATION, EXTORTION, AND UNAUTHORIZED PRACTICE OF LAW.

Section 240(c)(7)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1229a(c)(7)(C)) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(v) Fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, or extortion by, or attempted, promised, or actual practice of law without authorization on the part of a representative.--Notwithstanding subparagraph (A) and clause (i), an alien may file a motion to reopen at any time to apply for relief due to fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, or extortion by, or attempted, promised, or actual practice of law without authorization on the part of, a representative described in subsection (a) or (b) of section 1292.1 of title 8, Code of Federal Regulations, or a person who claimed to be such a representative if the alien establishes by a preponderance of the evidence such fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, or extortion by, or attempted, promised, or actual practice of law without authorization on the part of, such a representative or person.''.

SEC. 115. WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT PENALTY IN CASES INVOLVING FRAUD, NEGLIGENCE, MISREPRESENTATION, EXTORTION, AND UNAUTHORIZED PRACTICE OF LAW.

Section 239 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1229) is amended by adding at the end the following: ``(f) Fraud, Negligence, Misrepresentation, or Extortion by, or Attempted, Promised, or Actual Practice of Law Without Authorization on the Part of, a Representative.-- ``(1) In general.--An alien may withdraw an application or petition submitted by the alien without penalty due to fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, or extortion by, or attempted, promised, or actual practice of law without authorization on the part of, a representative described in subsection (a) or (b) of section 1292.1 of title 8, Code of Federal Regulations, or an individual who claimed to be such a representative, if the alien establishes such fraud, negligence, misrepresentation, or extortion by, or attempted, promised, or actual practice of law without authorization on the part of, such a representative or individual, by a preponderance of the evidence. ``(2) Prohibition on issuance of notice to appear.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall not issue a Notice to Appear based on information provided in an application, petition, or withdrawal request submitted by an alien described in paragraph (1).''.

Subtitle C--Provisions Relating to Removal of Parents of United States Citizens

SEC. 121. REVIEW OF AND REPORTING ON REMOVAL OF PARENTS OF UNITED STATES CITIZENS.

(a) In General.--Before the removal from the United States of an alien parent or legal guardian of a child under the age of 21 years who is a citizen of the United States or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, the Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (referred to in this section as the ``Director'') shall review and approve the removal of such alien. (b) Quarterly Report.--Not less frequently than quarterly, the Director shall submit to Congress a report on each review conducted under subsection (a) during the preceding quarter that-- (1) describes the result of the review; and (2) includes the rational for removal in each case. (c) Nondelegation.--The Director may not delegate the responsibilities under this section.

SEC. 122. REPORT ON ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS AGAINST CERTAIN IMMIGRANTS.

(a) In General.--With respect to covered aliens-- (1) not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to Congress a report on the number of such aliens removed from the United States during the period beginning on January 20, 2025, and ending on the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) not less frequently than quarterly, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to Congress, for the preceding quarter, a report on-- (A) the number of such aliens arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or U.S. Customs and Border Protection; (B) the number of such aliens detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or U.S. Customs and Border Protection; (C) the number of such aliens for whom U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has obtained a final order of removal; (D) the number of such aliens removed from the United States and the countries to which such aliens were removed; and (E) the number of such aliens processed through partnership programs with local law enforcement, including-- (i) a written agreement under section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1357(g)); and (ii) detainers placed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. (b) Covered Aliens Defined.--In this section, the term ``covered aliens'' means-- (1) alien parents of children who-- (A) are citizens of the United States; (B) are lawfully admitted for permanent residence (as defined in section 101(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a))); or (C) have been granted deferred action pursuant to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program set forth in the final rule issued by the Department of Homeland Security entitled ``Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals'' (87 Fed. Reg. 53152 (August 30, 2022)); (2) aliens who have been granted deferred action pursuant to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program set forth in the final rule issued by the Department of Homeland Security entitled ``Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals'' (87 Fed. Reg. 53152 (August 30, 2022)); (3) aliens with pending applications for classification as VAWA self-petitioners (as defined in section 101(a)(51) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(51))); (4) aliens who are applicants for status as nonimmigrants described in subparagraph (T) or (U) of section 101(a)(15) of that Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)); (5) aliens who are applicants for status as special immigrants described in section 101(a)(27)(J) of that Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(27)(J)); and (6) aliens granted status as special immigrants under that section.

SEC. 123. REPORT ON UNITED STATES CITIZENS DETAINED OR DEPORTED.

(a) Initial Report.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to Congress a report on the number of United States citizens detained or removed from the United States during the period beginning on January 20, 2025, and ending on the date of the enactment of this Act. (b) Immediate Report.--Not later than 24 hours after the detention or removal of a United States citizen, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to Congress a report regarding the incident, including a description of the actions being taken in response to such incident. (c) Quarterly Report.--Not less frequently than quarterly, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit to Congress a report on any United States citizen detained or removed from the United States during the preceding quarter, including a description of the actions taken by the Secretary in response to each such detention or removal.

SEC. 124. PROTECTIONS FOR UNITED STATES CITIZEN CHILDREN ABROAD.

(a) Report on United States Citizen Children Accompanying Removed Parents.-- (1) In general.--Not less frequently than semiannually, the Secretary of State, with the cooperation of the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall submit to Congress a report on known citizens of the United States under 18 years of age who leave the United States to accompany an alien parent or legal guardian who has been removed from the United States. (2) Elements.--Each report required under paragraph (1) shall include, for the preceding reporting period-- (A) the number of such citizens of the United States; and (B) for each such citizen of the United States-- (i) his or her current age; (ii) the age at which he or she departed the United States; (iii) his or her country of residence; (iv) an assessment whether-- (I) either parent was deported or removed from the United States; (II) either parent remains in the United States; and (III) he or she was in foster care in the United States at any time; and (v) an identification of any pending custody case in the United States with respect to such citizen, as applicable. (3) Cooperation of secretary of homeland security.--The Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide to the Secretary of State any data of the Department of Homeland Security that the Secretary of State may require to prepare the report under this subsection. (b) Directorate of Community Outreach.--There is established within the Department of State a directorate for the purpose of conducting outreach to citizens of the United States under the age of 18 years who have left the United States to accompany an alien family member who has been removed from the United States. (c) Duties.--The duties of the directorate established under subsection (b) shall include-- (1) facilitating access to passports, birth certificates, education records, health records, and any other documents necessary for United States citizen children's integration into destination country and travel to the United States; (2) working with destination countries to ensure United States citizen children's integration into new communities; (3) assisting United States citizen children with information regarding eligibility for any benefits and responsibilities, such as education, voting, and selective service; (4) to the extent feasible, conducting voluntary pre- departure consultations with families to establish the needs of the United States citizen children for successful integration in the destination country; and (5) other duties to fulfill the purpose described in subsection (b).

TITLE II--COMBATING FRAUD AND PROMOTING CITIZENSHIP

SEC. 201. COMBATING IMMIGRATION SERVICES FRAUD.

(a) Schemes To Provide Fraudulent Immigration Services.-- (1) In general.--Chapter 47 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: ``Sec. 1041. Schemes to provide fraudulent immigration services ``(a) In General.-- ``(1) Offense.--It shall be unlawful to knowingly or recklessly execute a scheme or artifice, in connection with any matter that is authorized by or arises under any Federal immigration law or any matter the offender claims or represents is authorized by or arises under any Federal immigration law, to-- ``(A) defraud any person; or ``(B) obtain or receive money or anything else of value from any person by means of false or fraudulent pretenses, representations, or promises. ``(2) Penalty.--Any person who violates paragraph (1) shall be fined under this title, imprisoned for not more than 10 years, or both. ``(b) Misrepresentation.-- ``(1) Offense.--It shall be unlawful for a person to knowingly and falsely represent that such person is an attorney or an accredited representative (as that term is defined in section 1292.1 of title 8, Code of Federal Regulations (or any successor regulation)) in any matter arising under any Federal immigration law. ``(2) Penalty.--Any person who violates paragraph (1) shall be fined under this title, imprisoned for not more than 15 years, or both. ``(c) Reimbursement.--Any person convicted of an offense under this section shall fully reimburse the client for any services that person fraudulently provided.''. (2) Clerical amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 47 of title 18, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 1040 the following:

``1041. Schemes to provide fraudulent immigration services.''. (b) Local Immigration Consumer Fraud Information Hotlines and Assistance Websites.--Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. 10101 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:

``PART PP--IMMIGRATION CONSUMER FRAUD HOTLINES AND DIGITAL TOOLS

``SEC. 3061. IMMIGRATION CONSUMER FRAUD HOTLINES AND DIGITAL TOOLS.

``(a) Grant Authorization.--The Attorney General shall make grants to States, units of local government, or any combination thereof, in partnership with stakeholders, service providers, and nonprofit organizations. ``(b) Mandatory Grant Uses.--Grant funds awarded under this section shall be expended for each of the following purposes: ``(1) Immigration consumer fraud information digital tools.--To provide for the establishment and operation of an immigration consumer fraud information and assistance digital tools, including websites or applications, which shall be a highly secure internet resource that provides information and assistance to victims of immigration consumer fraud. In establishing and operating the immigration consumer fraud and assistance digital tool, the grantee shall-- ``(A) use grant funds for startup and operation costs associated with establishing and operating the tool; ``(B) use a name or acronym as part of its website that identifies the tool with the geographic locality receiving the grant under subsection (a); ``(C) provide accurate information that describes the services available to immigration consumer fraud victims, including free or low-cost legal assistance; ``(D) clearly include, in all pages of the tool, that the information presented is for reference purposes only and does not constitute as legal advice; and ``(E) provide translation of resource content, in languages that are consistent with the criteria outlined in subsection (d)(2)(E)(i), either with a web page interface, or mirrored pages. ``(2) Immigration consumer fraud hotlines.--To establish or expand an immigration consumer fraud hotline to provide information and assistance to victims of immigration consumer fraud. In addition, grantees may, in operating with the hotline, work in conjunction with other local programs and activities that serve victims of immigration consumer fraud. In establishing and operating the hotline, the entity shall-- ``(A) contract with a carrier for the use of a toll-free telephone line; ``(B) employ, train and supervise personnel to answer incoming calls and provide assistance and referral services to callers on a 24-hour-a-day basis; ``(C) assemble and maintain a current database of information relating to services for victims of immigration consumer fraud to which callers throughout the United States may be referred; and ``(D) be prohibited from asking hotline callers about their citizenship status. ``(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this Act shall require a grantee receiving funds under this Act to comply with a request lawfully made by the Department of Homeland Security under section 236 or 287 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1226 and 1357) to comply with a detainer for, or notify about the use of services provided under this Act by an individual. ``(d) Application.--The Attorney General may approve an application for a grant under this section only if such application-- ``(1) contains such agreements, assurances, and information, is in such form, and is submitted in such manner, as the Attorney General shall by rule require; ``(2) in the case of an application for a grant to carry out activities described in subsection (b)(2), includes a complete description of the applicant's plan for the operation of an immigration consumer fraud hotline, including descriptions of-- ``(A) the training program for hotline personnel, including technology training to ensure that all persons affiliated with the hotline are able to effectively operate any technological systems used by the hotline; ``(B) the hiring criteria for hotline personnel; ``(C) the methods for the creation, maintenance, and updating of a resource database; ``(D) a plan for publicizing the availability of the hotline; ``(E) a plan for providing service to non-English speaking callers that-- ``(i) is based on data from the Bureau of the Census and be consistent with the local area demographics where the immigration consumer fraud hotline will operate such plan and outline which languages are most prevalent and commonly requested for translation services; or ``(ii) is based on qualitative and quantitative observation from community service providers offering immigration-related services; and ``(F) a plan for facilitating access to the hotline by persons with hearing impairments; and ``(3) in the case of an application for a grant to carry out activities described in subsection (b)(1)-- ``(A) include a complete description of the applicant's plan for the development, operation, maintenance, and updating of information and resources of the immigration consumer fraud information and assistance website; ``(B) include a certification that the applicant will implement a high level security system to ensure the confidentiality of the website, taking into consideration the safety of immigration consumer fraud victims; ``(C) include an assurance that, after the third year of the website project, the recipient of the grant will develop a plan to secure other public or private funding resources to ensure the continued operation and maintenance of the website; and ``(D) demonstrate that the applicant has recognized expertise in the area of immigration consumer fraud and a record of high quality service to victims of immigration consumer fraud, including a demonstration of support from advocacy groups. ``(e) Renewal of Grants.--A grant made under this section may be renewed, without limitations on the duration of such renewal, to provide additional funds, if the Attorney General determines that the funds made available to the recipient were used in a manner required under an approved application and if the recipient can demonstrate significant progress in achieving the objectives of the initial application. ``(f) No Cost Extensions.--Notwithstanding subsection (e), the Attorney General may extend a grant period, without limitations as to the duration of such extension, to provide additional time to complete the objectives of the initial grant award. ``(g) Authorization of Appropriations.-- ``(1) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $15,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, and for each succeeding fiscal year. ``(2) Websites.--Of the amounts appropriated to carry out this section, not less than 20 percent shall be used for purposes of carrying out activities under subsection (b)(1). ``(3) Availability.--Funds authorized to be appropriated under this section may remain available until expended. ``(h) Prohibition of Data Sharing for Immigration Enforcement Purposes.-- ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 642 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (8 U.S.C. 1373), an entity receiving a grant under this section may not disclose or use personally identifiable information provided by individuals using a website or a hotline under subsection (b), for the purposes of enforcing the immigration laws. ``(2) Referrals prohibited.--An entity receiving a grant under this section may not refer any individual participating in any program funded under this section to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. ``(3) Defined term.--In this section, the term `personally identifiable information' means any information about an individual elicited, collected, stored, or maintained by an entity receiving a grant under this section, including-- ``(A) any information that can be used to distinguish or trace the identity of an individual, such as a name, residential address, a social security number, an alien registration number, a date and place of birth, or a parent's maiden name; and ``(B) any other information that is linked or linkable to an individual, such as medical, educational, financial, and employment information.

``SEC. 3062. REPORT.

``A State or unit of local government that receives funds under this part during a fiscal year shall submit to the Attorney General a description and an evaluation report on a date specified by the Attorney General regarding the effectiveness of the programs carried out with a grant under this part.''. (c) Grants to States and Local Jurisdictions To Promote Outreach Campaigns Against Immigration Consumer Fraud.--Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. 10101 et seq.), as amended by subsection (b), is amended by inserting after part PP the following:

``PART QQ--GRANTS TO STATES AND LOCAL JURISDICTIONS TO PROMOTE OUTREACH CAMPAIGNS AGAINST IMMIGRATION CONSUMER FRAUD

``SEC. 3071. GRANTS TO STATES AND LOCAL JURISDICTIONS TO PROMOTE OUTREACH CAMPAIGNS AGAINST IMMIGRATION CONSUMER FRAUD.

``(a) Grant Authorization.-- ``(1) In general.--The Attorney General shall make grants to States, units of local government, or any combination thereof, in partnership with stakeholders, service providers, and nonprofit organizations. ``(2) Purpose.--The purpose of grants distributed under this subsection is to enable States and localities to work with parties in paragraph (1) to carry out outreach campaigns in any of the following: ``(A) Access to legal resources, including free or low-cost legal resources for persons of low-income. ``(B) Workshops educating the general public on immigration consumer fraud, including methods to identify such fraud and best practices on prevention. ``(C) Hiring of casework staff, attorneys, translators, accredited representatives and other similar staff to provide support for outreach objectives. ``(D) Printed materials or digital media designed with the intent to educate the public on where to obtain trusted legal resources, and how to prevent becoming a victim of immigration consumer fraud. ``(E) Public service announcements in television or radio, providing information on resources and assistance on preventing immigration consumer fraud. ``(F) Translation services, including translated equivalents of subparagraphs (A), (B), (C) or (D), consistent with the grantee's immediate translation needs based on-- ``(i) data from the Bureau of the Census that is consistent with the local area demographics where the outreach campaign will operate, along with a description of the languages are most prevalent or commonly requested for translation services; or ``(ii) quantitative or qualitative observation from community service providers offering immigration-related services. ``(b) Contents.--In accordance with such requirements as the Attorney General may by rule establish, each application for a grant under this section shall-- ``(1) include a long-term strategy and detailed implementation plan that reflects consultation with community groups and appropriate stakeholders; ``(2) explain the applicant's inability to address the need without Federal assistance; ``(3) identify related governmental and community initiatives which compliment or will be coordinated with the proposal; and ``(4) identify local service providers and nonprofit organizations that have substantial or significant experience dealing with immigration-related matters. ``(c) Renewal of Grants.--A grant made under this section may be renewed, without limitations on the duration of such renewal, to provide additional funds, if the Attorney General determines that the funds made available to the recipient were used in a manner required under an approved application and if the recipient can demonstrate significant progress in achieving the objectives of the initial application. ``(d) No Cost Extensions.--Notwithstanding subsection (c), the Attorney General may extend a grant period, without limitations as to the duration of such extension, to provide additional time to complete the objectives of the initial grant award. ``(e) Suspension of Funds.--If the Attorney General determines that a grant recipient under this section is not in substantial compliance with the terms and requirements of an approved grant application, the Attorney General may revoke or suspend funding of that grant, in whole, or in part. ``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.-- ``(1) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, and for each succeeding fiscal year. ``(2) Availability.--Funds authorized to be appropriated under this section may remain available until expended. ``(g) Prohibition on Data Sharing for Immigration Enforcement Purposes.-- ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 642 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (8 U.S.C. 1373), an entity receiving a grant under this section may not disclose or use personally identifiable information provided by individuals participating in outreach campaigns specified in subsection (a) for the purposes of enforcing the immigration laws. ``(2) Referrals prohibited.--An entity receiving a grant under this section may not refer any individual participating in any program funded under this section to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. ``(3) Defined term.--In this section, the term `personally identifiable information' means any information about an individual elicited, collected, stored, or maintained by an entity receiving a grant under this section, including-- ``(A) any information that can be used to distinguish or trace the identity of an individual, such as a name, residential address, a social security number, a date and place of birth, or a parent's maiden name; and ``(B) any other information that is linked or linkable to an individual, such as medical, educational, financial, and employment information.

``SEC. 3072. REPORT.

``A State or unit of local government that receives funds under this part during a fiscal year shall submit to the Attorney General a description and an evaluation report on a date specified by the Attorney General regarding the effectiveness of the programs carried out with a grant under this part.''. (d) Grants to States and Local Jurisdictions To Increase Enforcement Against Immigration Consumer Fraud.--Title I of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 (34 U.S.C. 10101 et seq.), as amended by subsections (b) and (c), is amended by inserting after part QQ the following:

``PART RR--GRANTS TO STATES AND LOCAL JURISDICTIONS TO INCREASE ENFORCEMENT AGAINST IMMIGRATION CONSUMER FRAUD

``SEC. 3081. GRANTS TO STATES AND LOCAL JURISDICTIONS TO INCREASE ENFORCEMENT AGAINST IMMIGRATION CONSUMER FRAUD.

``(a) Grant Authorization.-- ``(1) In general.--The Attorney General shall make grants to States, units of local government, or any combination thereof. ``(2) Purpose.--The purpose of grants distributed under this subsection is to enable States and localities to increase the enforcement of-- ``(A) State and local laws against immigration consumer fraud; and ``(B) section 1041 of title 18, United States Code. ``(3) Permitted use of funds.--A State or unit of local government that receives a grant under this section may use funds from the grant for activities, including-- ``(A) hiring staff, such as compliance officers that are charged with investigating and enforcing Federal, State, and local laws against immigration consumer fraud; ``(B) training staff, such as the compliance officers described in subparagraph (A); ``(C) investigating complaints of immigration consumer fraud; and ``(D) taking action against violations of Federal, State, and local laws relating to immigration consumer fraud, which may include the prosecution of violators. ``(b) Contents.--In accordance with such requirements as the Attorney General may by rule establish, each application for a grant under this section shall-- ``(1) include a detailed implementation plan that reflects consultation with community groups and appropriate stakeholders; and ``(2) explain the inability of the State or unit of local government to address the need to increase enforcement of immigration consumer fraud laws without Federal assistance. ``(c) Renewal of Grants.--A grant made under this section may be renewed, without limitations on the duration of such renewal, to provide additional funds, if the Attorney General determines that the funds made available to the recipient were used in a manner required under an approved application and if the recipient can demonstrate significant progress in achieving the objectives of the initial application. ``(d) No Cost Extensions.--Notwithstanding subsection (c), the Attorney General may extend a grant period, without limitations as to the duration of such extension, to provide additional time to complete the objectives of the initial grant award. ``(e) Suspension of Funds.--If the Attorney General determines that a grant recipient under this section is not in substantial compliance with the terms and requirements of an approved grant application, the Attorney General may revoke or suspend funding of that grant, in whole, or in part. ``(f) Authorization of Appropriations.-- ``(1) In general.--There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2027, and for each succeeding fiscal year. ``(2) Availability.--Funds authorized to be appropriated under this section may remain available until expended. ``(g) Prohibition on Data Sharing for Immigration Enforcement Purposes.-- ``(1) In general.-- ``(A) Disclosure prohibited.--Notwithstanding section 642 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (8 U.S.C. 1373), an entity receiving a grant under this section may not disclose or use personally identifiable information provided by an individual involved with the work funded under this section for the purposes of enforcing the immigration laws. ``(B) Exception.--An entity receiving a grant under this section may disclose or use personally identifiable information provided by an individual involved with the work funded under this section if-- ``(i) the disclosure or use required in order to prosecute a case; and ``(ii) the individual explicitly permits the use or disclosure. ``(2) Referrals prohibited.--An entity receiving a grant under this section may not refer any individual involved with work funded under this section to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement or to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. ``(3) Defined term.--In this section, the term `personally identifiable information' means any information about an individual elicited, collected, stored, or maintained by an entity receiving a grant under this section, including-- ``(A) any information that can be used to distinguish or trace the identity of an individual, such as a name, residential address, a social security number, a date and place of birth, or a parent's maiden name; and ``(B) any other information that is linked or linkable to an individual, such as medical, educational, financial, and employment information.

``SEC. 3082. REPORT.

``A State or unit of local government that receives funds under this part during a fiscal year shall submit to the Attorney General a description and an evaluation report on a date specified by the Attorney General regarding the effectiveness of the programs carried out with a grant under this part.''.

SEC. 202. REQUIREMENTS FOR IMMIGRATION CONSULTANTS.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commission, in consultation with the Director of the Executive Office for Immigration Review and the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall promulgate regulations, in accordance with section 553 of title 5, United States Code, that require an immigration consultant-- (1) to disclose in all advertising or promotional material and by displaying a notice at the regular place of business (if any) of the consultant that the consultant is not an immigration attorney, cannot provide legal advice or legal services on immigration matters, and is not authorized to represent aliens before an immigration court or the Board of Immigration Appeals or authorized to represent others before the Department of Homeland Security in connection with an application for an immigration benefit or an immigration proceeding; (2) if the consultant enters into a written contract for the provision of immigration consulting services-- (A) to ensure that the contract states that-- (i) the consultant is not an immigration attorney, cannot provide legal advice or legal services on immigration matters, and is not authorized to represent aliens before an immigration court or the Board of Immigration Appeals or authorized to represent others before the Department of Homeland Security in connection with an application for an immigration benefit or an immigration proceeding; and (ii) the client has the right to have the contract reviewed by an attorney; (B) to provide the client with a copy of the contract in English and, if requested by the client, in one or more other languages; (C) to inform the client of the right to request a copy of the contract in languages other than English, as required by subparagraph (B); and (D) to ensure that the contract provides the client with the right to rescind the contract at any time during the 72-hour period after entering into the contract; (3) not to collect fees for immigration consulting services before having rendered the services for which the fees are charged; (4) to return to the client any original document obtained from the client (unless the original document must be provided to a Federal or State agency or another person and has been so provided) and to furnish to the client for no additional charge a copy of any document prepared or obtained by the consultant for the client or otherwise used in connection with immigration consulting services for the client (other than notes or other documents prepared by the consultant for internal use in order to provide such services); and (5) to retain for not less than 3 years after ceasing to provide immigration consulting services for a client a copy of any document required by paragraph (4) to be returned or furnished to the client. (b) Definitions.--In this section: (1) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal Trade Commission. (2) Immigration consultant.--The term ``immigration consultant'' means a person engaged in the provision of immigration consulting services, except that such term does not include a person who is-- (A) authorized to represent aliens before an immigration court or the Board of Immigration Appeals; or (B) authorized to represent others in connection with an application or proceeding described in paragraph (3)(A) before the Department of Homeland Security in accordance with regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Homeland Security. (3) Immigration consulting services.-- (A) In general.--The term ``immigration consulting services'' means assistance, advice, or services provided to an individual in connection with-- (i) application (or consideration of application) by such individual for an immigration benefit; or (ii) an immigration proceeding involving such individual before or with the Department of Homeland Security or the Executive Office for Immigration Review. (B) Inclusions.--Such term includes the following: (i) Assistance with procuring supporting documentation requested by such an agency, such as a birth certificate or marriage license. (ii) Referring a client to an attorney for legal representation. (iii) Assistance with complying with requirements relating to biometric services. (C) Exclusions.--Such term does not include the following: (i) Completing a form of a Federal or State agency or submitting such form to such agency. (ii) Translating the responses of a client to the information requested on such a form or in other communications with such an agency. (4) State.--The term ``State'' means each of the several States, the District of Columbia, each commonwealth, territory, or possession of the United States, and each federally recognized Indian tribe. (c) Applicability and Enforcement of Regulations.-- (1) General application.--The requirements of the regulations promulgated under subsection (a) apply, according to their terms, to those persons, partnerships, and corporations over which the Commission has authority pursuant to section 5(a)(2) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 45(a)(2)). (2) Enforcement by federal trade commission.-- (A) Unfair or deceptive acts or practices.--A violation of a regulation promulgated under subsection (a) shall be treated as a violation of a regulation under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)) regarding unfair or deceptive acts or practices. (B) Powers of commission.--The Commission shall enforce the regulations promulgated under subsection (a) in the same manner, by the same means, and with the same jurisdiction, powers, and duties provided in the Federal Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.), and any person who violates such a regulation shall be subject to the penalties and entitled to the privileges and immunities provided in such Act. (3) Actions by states.

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