hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Establishes independent federal immigration courts, separate from executive branch.
Sponsored by Rep. Lofgren (D-CA) and three other Democrats.
Introduced in House, referred to committees.
This bill would create a new federal court system specifically for immigration cases, removing these judicial functions from the executive branch and placing them under an independent Article I court. It is sponsored by Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) along with other members. The bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives and sent to both the Judiciary and Budget Committees for review, meaning it's in the early stages of the legislative process.
Introduced Mar 5, 2026
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 5, 2026. It has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary and the House Committee on the Budget. For it to advance, these committees would need to consider, debate, and potentially amend the bill before voting to send it to the full House for a vote. No votes have occurred yet.
If passed, this bill would fundamentally change how immigration cases are handled. Instead of being part of the executive branch (Department of Justice), immigration judges would operate in independent courts with 15-year terms and set salaries, similar to other federal judges. This aims to increase judicial independence. The new courts would take over all current immigration proceedings, and their rules, opinions, and records would be made public, enhancing transparency in the system.
Supporters Say
Proponents argue this bill would ensure a more independent and fair judicial process for immigration cases, removing political influence.
Critics Say
Opponents might raise concerns about the cost of establishing a new federal court system or changes to executive control over immigration policy.
Supporters emphasize that moving immigration adjudication to an independent Article I court system would strengthen the rule of law and provide greater due process for individuals facing immigration proceedings. They believe it would reduce the perception of political interference in judicial decisions. Critics, however, may question the financial implications of creating an entirely new federal court infrastructure and debate whether such a shift is the most efficient way to manage immigration caseloads, or if it might hinder the executive branch's ability to implement immigration policy.