In House Committee·Last action 249 days ago

HR4959 Repeals Speech-Based Deportation Rule

Officially: Land of the Free Act of 2025

HR4959 repeals a rule that allows deportation of non-citizens for certain speech activities. Affects immigrants by aligning deportation rules with free speech rights.

Where it stands

Sitting in House Committee

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

Repeal of Section 237(a)(4)(C): Eliminates deportation for certain speech activities.
Aligns with First Amendment: Protects non-citizens' speech rights without affecting other deportation grounds.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Protection of Free Speech: Supporters argue that everyone, including non-citizens, should have the right to free speech as protected by the First Amendment.
Encouraging Civic Engagement: By removing the threat of deportation, the bill could encourage non-citizens to participate more actively in political discussions and community activities.
Balancing Rights and Security: Proponents believe that the current law is too broad and can unfairly target people for legitimate political speech.

✕Arguments against

National Security Concerns: Critics worry that removing this provision could make it harder to deport individuals who pose a genuine threat to public safety.
Potential for Abuse: Opponents argue that without this law, it might be easier for harmful speech to spread without consequences.
Impact on Immigration System: Some believe that changing this law could complicate the immigration system and make it harder to enforce other immigration rules.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

Latest: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. (8/12/2025)

AUG 12

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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HR4959 Repeals Speech-Based Deportation Rule

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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