Fundamental Immigration Fairness Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Stops DHS from arresting immigrants who show up at federal immigration offices or courts, unless a judge first rules they lack good moral character.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: immigrants attending required check-ins or hearings, their families, immigration attorneys.
- Loses: DHS and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) enforcement officers who use courthouse arrests as a tool.
What it does
- Bans DHS detention of immigrants arriving at or leaving DHS field offices or Executive Office for Immigration Review facilities.
- Exception: judge can okay detention if person lacks 'good moral character.
- Amends 8 U.S.C. 1101(f): unlawful entry or presence alone cannot prove bad moral character.
- Bars the Attorney General from posting party names outside immigration courtrooms or in public hallways.
Why should I care?
Supporters say courthouse arrests scare immigrants away from required appointments, splitting families and undermining due process. Critics argue the limits weaken enforcement and let people facing removal avoid custody. The privacy rule also shields people from harassment outside courtrooms. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.