H.R.2204 - To require an institution of higher education that becomes aware that a student having nonimmigrant status under subparagraph (F)(i) or (J) of section 101(a)(15) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)) has endorsed or supported a foreign terrorist organization to notify the SEVIS, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2204 mandates that higher education institutions report to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) if a student with an F-1 or J-1 nonimmigrant visa supports or endorses a foreign terrorist organization. The bill also stipulates that the Secretary of State must revoke the visa of any student found to be in support of such organizations. Following visa revocation, the Secretary of Homeland Security is required to initiate removal proceedings against the student.
Expected Effects
This bill aims to enhance national security by preventing foreign students who support terrorism from remaining in the United States. It will likely increase scrutiny of international students and place additional reporting burdens on higher education institutions. The bill could also deter some international students from expressing controversial political views, even if those views do not directly incite violence or terrorism.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by removing potential supporters of terrorism.
- May deter foreign students from engaging in activities that support or endorse terrorism.
- Provides a clear mechanism for institutions to report suspicious activities.
- Reinforces the message that the U.S. does not tolerate support for terrorism.
- Could improve the integrity of the student visa program.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May infringe on freedom of speech and expression for international students.
- Could lead to increased scrutiny and potential discrimination against international students.
- Places additional administrative burdens on higher education institutions.
- May deter legitimate international students from studying in the U.S.
- Could be perceived as a violation of academic freedom.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. While the government has a legitimate interest in protecting national security, the First Amendment protects freedom of speech. The extent to which supporting or endorsing a foreign terrorist organization constitutes protected speech is a matter of legal interpretation. The Fifth Amendment's due process clause also applies, requiring fair procedures before a visa is revoked and removal proceedings are initiated.
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).