Us Congress House Bill HB7028

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/24
• Refer: 1/17/24

Caption

Keeping Our Promise Act

Impact

If enacted, the bill will amend existing provisions in the Immigration and Nationality Act by allowing specific groups of individuals affected by restrictive policies to apply for their previously allocated visas. The bill specifically addresses hardships faced by applicants whose visa processes were interrupted, and it aims to reinstate fairness in the immigration process. This could significantly alter the experience of affected immigrants, allowing them to navigate the visa application process without being penalized for circumstances beyond their control.

Summary

House Bill 7028, known as the 'Keeping Our Promise Act,' aims to authorize the issuance of immigrant visas for individuals who were previously allocated diversity visas but were denied either due to various Presidential Proclamations or the COVID-19 public health emergency. The act seeks to ensure that these individuals can still obtain their visas, which are part of the diversity visa lottery system intended to promote immigration from underrepresented countries. This bill reflects a commitment to reinstating opportunities for those affected by past travel bans and disruptions.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its humanitarian aspects, it may also face opposition based on concerns regarding immigration control and national security. Some lawmakers may argue that lax visa issuance could reopen pathways that were tightly controlled during the previous administration. Critics may emphasize the need to balance humanitarian efforts with national security interests, asserting that visa policies should remain stringent to protect the public. This balance will likely be a point of contention in legislative discussions surrounding the bill.