S.696 - Protecting Our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Protecting Our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act" (S.696) aims to provide temporary Ukrainian guest status to eligible aliens who were paroled into the United States under the Uniting for Ukraine program. This status would grant them the right to work in the U.S. for a limited time. The status expires 120 days after the Secretary of State determines that hostilities in Ukraine have ceased and conditions allow for safe return.
The bill defines "eligible alien" as someone paroled under the Uniting for Ukraine process announced on April 21, 2022. It also allows for revocation of the guest status if the Secretary of Homeland Security determines the alien poses a security risk, as defined in the Immigration and Nationality Act.
The bill was introduced in the Senate on February 24, 2025, and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would formalize the status of Ukrainians who entered the U.S. under the Uniting for Ukraine program. It would grant them a temporary legal status and work authorization.
This would provide stability for these individuals while the conflict in Ukraine continues. It also offers a pathway for them to contribute to the U.S. economy.
Potential Benefits
- Provides legal status and work authorization to Ukrainians who fled the conflict.
- Offers stability and security to a vulnerable population.
- Allows Ukrainians to contribute to the U.S. economy and become self-sufficient.
- Could improve the U.S.'s international image as a humanitarian leader.
- Simplifies the process for Ukrainians to remain in the U.S. temporarily.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain social services and resources in some communities.
- May create a precedent for granting similar status to other groups of displaced people, potentially overwhelming the system.
- The 120-day expiration period after the cessation of hostilities might be insufficient for some individuals to prepare for return or seek alternative legal status.
- Could face opposition from groups advocating for stricter immigration policies.
- Potential for fraud or abuse of the system.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Constitution's implied powers related to immigration and foreign affairs. Congress has broad authority to regulate immigration under Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to establish a uniform Rule of Naturalization.
The bill's provisions for revoking guest status based on security concerns also align with the government's responsibility to protect national security. However, the due process rights of individuals whose status is revoked must be protected.
Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections.
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).