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HR 4703

To establish a system to track, record, and report all instances in which a United States citizen or individual lawfully admitted for permanent resident was, for the purpose of immigration enforcement, detained or removed by the Department of Homeland Security, and for other purposes.

119th Congress Introduced by Joaquin Castro and 17 co-sponsors

HR 4703 establishes a tracking system for detentions and removals of U.S. citizens and lawful residents, enhancing transparency and protecting individual rights.

Introduced in House
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 4703

Summary of HR 4703: Immigration Enforcement Tracking System

Bill Number: HR 4703
Title: To establish a system to track, record, and report all instances in which a United States citizen or individual lawfully admitted for permanent resident was, for the purpose of immigration enforcement, detained or removed by the Department of Homeland Security, and for other purposes.
Status: Introduced in House
Introduced: July 23, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary aim of HR 4703 is to create a comprehensive tracking system that monitors and reports on the detention and removal of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for immigration enforcement purposes. This legislation seeks to enhance transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement actions, particularly concerning individuals who may be wrongfully detained or removed.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of Tracking System:

    • The Secretary of Homeland Security is required to establish a standardized system within 180 days of the bill's enactment.
    • This system will track, record, and report all instances of detention or removal of U.S. citizens and LPRs, including those whose LPR status has been revoked within the last 30 days.
    • Reports must be submitted to Congress at least quarterly.

  2. Inclusion of Additional Data:

    • The tracking system will also include instances where individuals are apprehended and detained by other federal, state, or local law enforcement agencies before being transferred to DHS custody.
    • Special attention will be given to cases involving minors (under 18 years of age) who are removed alongside a parent or guardian lacking lawful status.

  3. Submission of Information:

    • The Secretary of Homeland Security, in collaboration with the Secretary of State, must create a process allowing detained or removed individuals to submit information verifying their status as U.S. citizens or LPRs.

  4. Definition of Terms:

    • The bill defines key terms such as "appropriate committees of Congress," "immigration laws," and "removed," ensuring clarity in its implementation.

Affected Parties

  • U.S. Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents: The bill directly impacts individuals who may be detained or removed under immigration enforcement actions.
  • Department of Homeland Security: The DHS will be responsible for implementing the tracking system and reporting requirements.
  • Congress: The bill mandates regular reporting to specific congressional committees, enhancing oversight of immigration enforcement practices.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary on July 23, 2025.
  • If enacted, the tracking system must be operational within 180 days of the bill's passage, indicating a relatively swift timeline for implementation.

Conclusion

HR 4703 aims to improve oversight and accountability in immigration enforcement by establishing a tracking system for detentions and removals of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. By requiring regular reporting to Congress and allowing individuals to verify their status, the bill seeks to protect the rights of those potentially affected by immigration enforcement actions.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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