Summary of H.R. 7621: Restricting Immigration Officer Election Activities Act

Overview

H.R. 7621, the "Restricting Immigration Officer Election Activities Act," is a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on February 20, 2026. The main purpose of the bill is to prohibit certain activities by immigration officers in connection with federal, state, and local elections.

Key Provisions

The bill would make the following key changes:

1. Restricting Immigration Enforcement Near Polling Places: The bill would prohibit immigration officers from conducting enforcement actions, such as detentions or arrests, within a certain distance (e.g. 500 feet) of polling places, ballot drop boxes, or other locations related to the electoral process.

2. Prohibiting Voter Intimidation: The bill would explicitly prohibit immigration officers from engaging in any activity that could be considered voter intimidation, coercion, or interference with the right to vote.

3. Reporting Requirements: The bill would require the Department of Homeland Security to report annually on any enforcement actions taken by immigration officers near polling places or other election-related locations.

Potential Impact

If enacted, this bill could have the following impacts:

• Protecting Voting Access: The restrictions on immigration enforcement near polling places and the prohibition on voter intimidation are intended to help ensure that all eligible voters can freely exercise their right to vote without fear of interference or harassment.

• Increased Transparency: The annual reporting requirements would provide greater public transparency around any immigration enforcement actions that do occur near election-related sites.

• Potential Challenges: The bill's provisions may face legal challenges from those who argue the restrictions go too far or are unconstitutional. The enforcement and implementation details would also need to be carefully defined.

Overall, H.R. 7621 aims to set clear boundaries on the activities of immigration officers in order to protect the integrity of U.S. elections and the voting rights of all citizens.