Summary
Makes any non-citizen convicted of, or who admits to, harming a police animal unable to enter the U.S. and subject to being sent away from the country.
What problem does this solve?
Current immigration law does not specifically list harming a police animal as a reason to deny entry or remove a non-citizen. This bill adds that specific crime to the list of offenses that make a non-citizen inadmissible and deportable.
Who does this affect?
- Non-citizens
What does this bill do?
Makes harming police animals a reason for inadmissibility
Adds a new rule to immigration law stating that any non-citizen convicted of or admitting to harming a law enforcement animal is not allowed to enter the United States.
Makes harming police animals a reason for deportation
Adds a new rule that allows for the removal of any non-citizen in the U.S. who is convicted of or admits to harming a law enforcement animal.
What is the real world impact?
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Creates new grounds for deportation
Uses the protection of police animals as a reason to broaden the scope of crimes that can lead to a non-citizen being deported, potentially targeting immigrants for offenses that might not otherwise result in such a severe penalty.
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Protects law enforcement animals
Ensures non-citizens who harm animals assisting police officers face serious immigration consequences, recognizing the important role these animals play in public safety.
When does this start?
This bill would take effect as soon as it is signed into law.