Strengthening Entry Visa Enforcement and Restrictions Act of 2025; SEVER Act of 2025
Summary
The Strengthening Entry Visa Enforcement and Restrictions Act of 2025 (SEVER Act) aims to deny entry visas to individuals subject to sanctions under Executive Order 13876, which pertains to sanctions related to Iran. The bill amends Section 407(a)(1) of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1990 and 1991, to include this restriction. The bill was introduced in the Senate by Mr. Cruz, along with several co-sponsors, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Expected Effects
The SEVER Act, if enacted, would broaden the criteria for visa denial to the United States. This would specifically target individuals sanctioned under Executive Order 13876 related to Iran. The practical effect would be to bar these individuals from entering the US, impacting their ability to conduct business, attend events, or visit family within the country.
Potential Benefits
- Enhances national security by preventing sanctioned individuals from entering the U.S.
- Reinforces existing sanctions regimes against Iran.
- May deter sanctioned individuals from engaging in activities that led to their sanctions.
- Potentially strengthens the U.S.'s position on international security and counter-terrorism.
- Could be seen as a strong message to other nations regarding the enforcement of sanctions.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May complicate diplomatic relations if applied too broadly.
- Could face legal challenges based on due process or equal protection grounds.
- Potential for unintended consequences, such as hindering negotiations or humanitarian efforts.
- May be viewed as discriminatory, depending on the specific sanctions and individuals targeted.
- Could lead to reciprocal actions from other countries, limiting travel for U.S. citizens.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality hinges on the power of Congress to regulate immigration and foreign relations. Article I of the Constitution grants Congress the power to establish rules of naturalization and regulate commerce with foreign nations. The bill must also adhere to due process requirements under the Fifth Amendment, ensuring fair procedures for visa applicants. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights, such as freedom of speech or religion, as it targets individuals subject to sanctions rather than broad classes of people.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).