Access to Counsel Act

Sponsor: Pramila Jayapal (Democratic-WA)February 4, 2025

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Introduced

In Committee

Passed One Chamber

Passed Both Chambers

Signed into Law

Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Travelers held at U.S. borders would get legal help within one hour

This bill would give people held for extra checks at U.S. borders the right to talk to a lawyer or a trusted person within an hour. It aims to make sure individuals, including U.S. citizens and green card holders, can get legal advice and support during these inspections, which isn't always guaranteed today. These changes would take effect 180 days after the bill becomes law.

What Would Change

Today, there's no explicit guarantee or specific timeframe for people undergoing extra checks at U.S. borders to speak with a lawyer or family member. This bill would guarantee that certain individuals get to consult with legal counsel or an interested party within one hour of secondary inspection and throughout the process. It would also prevent green card holders from giving up their status without legal advice, unless they waive that right.

Key Provisions

Requires border officials to let certain travelers talk to a lawyer or interested party within one hour of secondary inspection.
Allows lawyers and interested parties to speak up for travelers and provide documents to immigration officers.
Protects green card holders from giving up their status without legal advice, unless they choose to waive this right in writing.
Requires border officials to try, as much as possible, to allow lawyers or interested parties to be present in person during inspections.
Defines who counts as a "covered individual" eligible for these rights, including U.S. citizens, green card holders, and those with valid visas or parole.

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HR 944 · 119th Congress · February 4, 2025 · AI Summary by gemini-2.5-flash · 8/10

Access to Counsel Act

What Would Change

Key Provisions

Lobbying Activity