SAFE VISITS Act

119th Congress Introduced by Gabe Evans and 3 co-sponsors

The SAFE VISITS Act standardizes safety protocols for visits, detailing access, screening, training, and accountability to improve security and oversight.

Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held

Summary of HR 7427 (Session 119) — SAFE VISITS Act

Purpose and intent

The SAFE VISITS Act seeks to establish standards and procedures to ensure the safety of visits or visits-related activities within the scope of its jurisdiction. The bill is framed to enhance security considerations in certain visits, though the precise scope is defined in the text of the bill itself. Based on the title, the act likely focuses on safety protocols for visits in designated settings or programs, potentially involving sensitive facilities or populations.

Key provisions and changes

The bill would introduce or modify requirements governing visits under the act’s scope. While the exact mechanisms are not enumerated in the summary, typical components in similar legislation include:

Verification and background-check procedures for individuals seeking access.
Standardized safety protocols and training for personnel involved in facilitating visits.
Procedures for screening and handling prohibited items or behaviors during visits.
Clear roles and responsibilities for relevant agencies or authorities.
Compliance, reporting, and accountability measures, including potential penalties for violations.

The bill has been amended in process, as indicated by “Ordered to be Reported (Amended)” and the committee markups, signaling that changes were made during consideration.

Who or what is affected

Affected parties likely include:

Individuals seeking visits that fall under the act’s program or facility category.
Agencies and offices responsible for administering the visit programs, security, and safety compliance.
Employees and contractors who facilitate visits, including training and monitoring roles.

The sponsor list includes multiple representatives, with co-sponsors suggesting bipartisan interest. The involvement of the Committee on Homeland Security and the Judiciary (as indicated by referrals) implies the bill touches security, investigative authorities, and potentially civil liberties considerations.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced: February 9, 2026.

Referred to multiple committees: Homeland Security; Judiciary (and subcommittees) for jurisdictional review.

Subcommittee activity:

February 9, 2026: Referred to the Subcommittee on Counterterrorism and Intelligence.
May 14, 2026: Subcommittee considered and mark-up session held; forwarded to full committee by voice vote.

Full Committee action:

May 14, 2026: Subcommittee forwarded the bill to the full committee by voice vote.
June 24, 2026: Committee consideration and mark-up; ordered to be reported amended by a vote of 28 yeas to 2 nays.

The bill has progressed through the standard committee pathway toward potential floor consideration, with amendments incorporated and a strong majority favorable vote at the full committee stage.

Potential impact

Enhanced standardization and safety for visits under the act, improving security and oversight.

Clarified responsibilities and procedures for agencies handling visits, potentially improving compliance and accountability.

Possible implications for civil liberties and privacy, depending on the scope of screening and monitoring provisions; would require balancing security with individual rights.

If enacted, implementing regulations and agency guidance would shape practical application, including training, audits, and enforcement mechanisms.

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