HIAS Statement on Proposed Immigration Reform Bills

On Tuesday March 3, the House Judiciary Committee will begin consideration of four proposed immigration reform bills. Included in the markup are H.R. 1148, The Michael Davis, Jr. in Honor of State and Local Law Enforcement Act, H.R. 1153 the Asylum Reform and Border Protection Act of 2015, and H.R. 1149 the Protection of Children Act of 2015.

These bills were introduced in response to President Obama's Executive Action on immigration. Should they pass out of committee, they could proceed to the House floor for a full vote. At this time, it is unclear whether the Senate will consider these or similar pieces of legislation.  

HIAS has submitted a statement to the Committee outlining concerns about the bills and making recommendations to Congress to strengthen and protect the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.  

"These bills are in direct conflict with the American tradition of generosity toward those who seek a safe haven from oppression," said Melanie Nezer, HIAS Vice President, Policy and Advocacy. "If passed, they will seriously undermine protections for asylum seekers and the rights of immigrants" 

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