URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT TO DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A U VISA CERTIFICATION POLICY.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Henry Aquino

SCR 47 urges the Department of Law Enforcement to create a U Visa certification policy, enhancing support for crime victims and fostering cooperation with immigrant communities.

Referred to JHA, referral sheet 27

#certificationpolicy #departmentoflawenforcement #uvisa

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SCR 47

Title: Urging the Department of Law Enforcement to Develop and Implement a U Visa Certification Policy

Status: Referred to JHA, referral sheet 27

Introduced: March 07, 2024

Classification: Concurrent resolution

Subject: Certification Policy, Department of Law Enforcement, U Visa

Purpose and Intent

SCR 47 aims to encourage the Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) to create and enforce a formal policy for certifying U Visas. U Visas are non-immigrant visas available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered substantial abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity. The resolution seeks to enhance the support for crime victims and improve cooperation between law enforcement and immigrant communities.

Key Provisions

Development of Certification Policy: The resolution urges the DLE to establish a clear and accessible policy for the certification of U Visas.

Implementation Timeline: While the resolution does not specify a strict timeline, it emphasizes the urgency of developing this policy to better serve victims of crime.

Collaboration with Stakeholders: The resolution suggests that the DLE should work with community organizations and legal advocates to ensure the policy is effective and meets the needs of victims.

Impact

Victims of Crime: The primary beneficiaries of this resolution would be victims of qualifying crimes who are seeking U Visas. A streamlined certification process could provide them with greater access to legal protections and support.

Law Enforcement Agencies: The DLE and local law enforcement agencies would be tasked with implementing the new policy, which may require training and resources to ensure compliance and effectiveness.

Community Organizations: Nonprofits and advocacy groups that assist victims of crime may see increased collaboration with law enforcement as a result of this policy.

Legislative Actions

March 07, 2024: Offered in the Senate.

April 01, 2024: The committee on Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM) recommended that the measure be passed unamended.

April 04, 2024: The resolution was adopted by the Senate and transmitted to the House.

April 05, 2024: Referred to the Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs (JHA) committee.

Related Bills

HCR 74: A companion resolution that may address similar issues regarding U Visa certification.

SR 35: Another related resolution that may provide additional context or support for the objectives of SCR 47.

This resolution represents a significant step towards improving the legal framework for supporting crime victims, particularly within immigrant communities, by facilitating access to U Visas through a structured certification process.

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