Kayla Hamilton Act

This bill changes how the federal government decides where to place unaccompanied immigrant children in its custody. Before placing a child, the Department of Health and Human Services would have to consult with immigration and justice officials and, for children 12 and older, request foreign criminal records and examine the child for gang-related tattoos or markings. Children 12 and older who are found to be a flight risk or a danger, including those with gang markings or certain criminal records, would be held in a secure facility during their immigration case. Children could not be placed with sponsors who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, or with sponsors who live with someone convicted of listed crimes. The department would also have to share sponsor and household information, including immigration status and background check results, with the Department of Homeland Security before placement.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• John Cornyn Republican sponsor
• 12 cosponsors