Contact Congress about H.R. 944: Access to Counsel Act

Some people stopped for extra immigration screening could talk with a lawyer within one hour. Green card holders would get legal help before giving up their status, unless they clearly waive that chance in writing.

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Access to Counsel Act is a House bill in committee. The latest recorded action: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Latest action on H.R. 944: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Who this affects: This bill mainly affects people pulled aside for extra immigration screening at U.S. entry points. Green card holders, visa holders, refugees, returning asylees, certain parolees, and U.S. nationals would get clearer access to legal help. It also affects lawyers, accredited immigration representatives, relatives, sponsors, and connected organizations that may help during inspection. DHS and U.S. Customs and Border Protection would need procedures, training, and staffing to make this access work.

Why this matters: Extra border screening can affect whether someone enters the United States or keeps their immigration status. This bill could help people understand questions, forms, and choices before they make serious decisions. It matters most for green card holders and others with complex status, because one signed form or misunderstood answer can have lasting effects. The bill could also change workloads at ports of entry, but the exact impact would depend on how many people ask for help and how DHS carries out the rules.

Key provisions in H.R. 944

• DHS would have to let certain people in secondary or deferred inspection talk with legal counsel and a trusted helper. Secondary inspection means extra screening after the first border check.
• DHS would have to provide that access within one hour after secondary inspection starts. The person could keep getting help as needed during the full inspection, including deferred inspection.
• People could consult by phone. DHS would also have to allow lawyers or trusted helpers to come to the inspection site when it is practical.
• Lawyers and trusted helpers could give immigration officers facts, documents, and other evidence for the person being inspected.
• DHS generally could not accept Form I-407 from a green card holder during secondary or deferred inspection until the person has had a real chance to seek legal advice. Form I-407 is used to give up lawful permanent resident status. DHS could accept it sooner only if the person knowingly, intelligently, and voluntarily waives that chance in writing.

How Modern Action helps you take action on H.R. 944

You do not have to start with a blank letter. Modern Action turns the bill, your position, and the relevant congressional context into a message you can edit and send. The goal is to make contacting Congress clear, specific, and useful without forcing you to parse bill text or figure out the right office on your own.

Questions people ask about H.R. 944

What is H.R. 944?

Some people stopped for extra immigration screening could talk with a lawyer within one hour. Green card holders would get legal help before giving up their status, unless they clearly waive that chance in writing.

How do I support or oppose H.R. 944?

Choose support, oppose, or ask for changes on Modern Action. The action flow drafts the message for you and keeps the wording tied to this bill.

Who should I contact about H.R. 944?

Modern Action uses your location to route the action to the congressional offices relevant to the bill and your representation.

Can Modern Action explain H.R. 944 before I act?

Yes. Modern Action gives you a plain-English summary, current status, and action context before you send anything.