Stay informed on the latest policies on unaccompanied children and their families. This tracker highlights important legislation introduced during the 119th Congress aimed at protecting immigrant and refugee children, especially those who arrive in the United States alone.

Your voice matters. Help advance policies that safeguard unaccompanied children by reaching out to your representatives. Support legislation that promotes safety, dignity, and legal protections for vulnerable children. Every call, email, or message counts—take action today to help create a safer future for all children seeking refuge.

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Congressional Bills and Legislation Affecting Unaccompanied Children

This bill would guarantee unaccompanied children government-funded legal counsel in immigration removal proceedings, rather than requiring them to navigate the process alone or find their own representation. It has been introduced in both chambers of Congress:

  • H.R. 9259 (House) — Introduced by Rep. Zoe Lofgren
  • S. 1297 (Senate) — Introduced by Sen. Mazie Hirono
Learn more about the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act

This bill would eliminate employment-based visa caps for Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJs), children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected, removing a major bottleneck that currently leaves many of these children waiting years for lawful status. It has been introduced in both chambers of Congress:

  • S. 1965 (Senate) — Introduced in the Senate
  • H.R. 3763 (House) — Introduced by Rep. Jimmy Gomez
Learn more about the Protect Vulnerable Immigrant Youth Act

This bill would reverse provisions in the 2025 tax and spending law (H.R. 1) that exempt unaccompanied children from asylum fees, immigration court fees, and other humanitarian protection fees, eliminate the fee on abused or neglected children applying for Special Immigrant Juvenile status, and repeal provisions funding deportations without trafficking screenings and intrusive body examinations of children in federal custody. KIND President Wendy Young joined lawmakers at the bill’s introduction, underscoring the organization’s direct role in shaping this legislation. It has been introduced in both chambers of Congress:

  • S. 3322 (Senate) — Introduced by Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto
  • H.R. 6389 (House) — Introduced by Rep. Dan Goldman and Rep. Delia Ramirez
Learn more about the Upholding Protections for Unaccompanied Children Act

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The government has stopped paying for legal services for unaccompanied children, putting thousands at risk.

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