The U.S. House of Representatives will soon consider dangerous legislation that could detain immigrants indefinitely. Take action today, we need your help! Sign this petition from the National Immigrant Justice Center.
The Keep Our Communities Safe Act of 2011 (H.R. 1932), introduced by Rep. Lamar Smith (TX-21), would radically expand the government’s power to indefinitely detain immigrants and severely curtail immigration judges’ authority to review individuals’ detention. The bill would allow the U.S. government to detain immigrants for years without providing an opportunity to appear before a judge.
H.R. 1932 violates basic constitutional and human rights of asylum seekers, lawful permanent residents, and countless other individuals who contribute to our communities and economy, potentially subjecting them to life-long detention. The legislation defies Supreme Court rulings prohibiting indefinite and unnecessary detention.
Congress entrusts immigration judges with the authority to permit individuals to enter or remain in the United States as asylees or permanent residents and to be our neighbors, co-workers, and our children’s classmates. Judges should also have the discretion to decide if detention is appropriate.