Hyderabad: The White House has announced its support for H.R. 875, the Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act, which seeks to make deportation mandatory for all non-citizens, including green card and visa holders, who have any record of driving under the influence (DUI), even if the case is old or minor.At present, DUI cases do not automatically lead to deportation or entry bans. Judges can consider factors such as rehabilitation, how much time has passed, and family or community ties before making a decision. The new Bill, however, would remove that flexibility and make deportation automatic for anyone with a DUI record. The Bill was passed by the House of Representatives in late July and is now being reviewed by the Senate Judiciary Committee. Supporters say the measure will strengthen public safety, but critics argue that it is too harsh and could unfairly punish long-term residents over minor or decades-old infractions. Immigrant communities, including the Indian diaspora, have expressed concern that the law could apply retroactively, affecting thousands of lawful permanent residents and visa holders. Legal experts warn that if enacted, the law would mark a major change in US immigration policy. They caution that immigrants with any DUI history could face deportation or be denied entry into the United States, with little chance to appeal or explain their circumstances.
Source link
