MENG INTRODUCES SAFE CHECK-INS FOR IMMIGRANTS ACT

Legislation Would Allow Immigrants to Attend ICE Check-ins virtually instead of appearing in-person

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY) today announced the introduction of her Safe Check-ins for Immigrants Act (H.R.8381), a bill that would allow immigrants to complete required check-ins with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) through virtual platforms such as Zoom instead of appearing in person.

Meng introduced the legislation in response to a sharp increase in ICE arrests occurring during routine check-ins at immigration offices and court buildings. ICE arrests have more than quadrupled during the President’s second term and many of those arrests have been made against people without criminal convictions.

“ICE agents have been causing chaos in our communities for months,” said Congresswoman Meng. “Immigrants who are complying with the law have been detained and arrested while attending their scheduled check-ins. That’s not enforcement, that’s intimidation. The Administration claims it is targeting the ‘worst of the worst’, but many of those arrested have no criminal record, are following the rules set by the government, and are trying to obtain legal status. My bill would provide a safe, secure way for individuals to fulfill their obligations and continue their path toward legal status without fear.”

The bill is supported by New York Immigration Coalition, Asian American Federation, New Immigrant Community Empowerment, Adhikaar, and Emerald Isle Immigration Center.

A copy can be viewed here.