Sacramento, CA - Assemblymember David Alvarez (D–San Diego) has introduced Assembly Bill 1994, The Defending Immigrant Victims Act. The bill requires law enforcement agencies to provide crime victims with an Immigrant Victims’ Rights and Resources card, along with the Marsy’s Rights card, so victims are informed about the U Nonimmigrant Status (U-Visa) protections and eligibility. This legislation strengthens California’s commitment to public safety by protecting all crime victims and ensuring that immigrant victims are informed of their rights.
“Victims of crime should never be afraid to contact law enforcement,” said Assemblymember Alvarez. “This legislation encourages undocumented victims to report crimes and share information that supports law enforcement investigations, and ensures they receive guidance about the protections available through the U-Visa program.”
A U-Visa is a temporary immigration status for non-citizens who are victims of certain serious crimes in the United States and are likely to be helpful to law enforcement in investigating those crimes. It is designed to encourage victims to report offenses without fear of deportation.
“By requiring timely notification and connecting victims with trusted legal resources, this bill empowers survivors to come forward and remain cooperative throughout investigations,” said J. Brooke Parr, a longtime San Diego immigration attorney. Ensuring the safety of victims and their families while giving law enforcement the tools and community trust it needs to prosecute crimes effectively will help deliver justice for all Californians.”
In 2008, California approved Proposition 9, the “Victims’ Bill of Rights Act of 2008: Marsy’s Law.” This requires law enforcement to provide a Marsy’s Rights card to crime victims with information regarding their rights and helpful resources, however, this does not include the U-Visa.
“This bill ensures that immigrant victims of crime are informed about their eligibility for a U-Visa,” said Daniel Mendoza, a former paralegal and the bill’s originator. “It helps victims pursue justice, protects vulnerable immigrant communities, and guides victims towards a path to recovery.”
The Defending Immigrant Victims Act removes barriers that discourage undocumented crime victims from reporting to law enforcement and helps deter future crimes. The bill is currently pending referral to an Assembly Policy Committee for its first hearing.