A New Bill May Provide More Protection for Immigrants in the U.S.

Raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have increased since the beginning of 2025. These raids are meant to apprehend immigrants, who may be legally or illegally in the country, and detain them, typically with the intention of placing them in deportation proceedings. The very purpose of ICE raids is what makes them so frightening for immigrants. Adding to the fear is the fact that ICE agents often apprehend individuals while they are masked and wearing plainclothes, meaning there is nothing to identify them as government officials.

However, a new bill has been introduced by Senators from California and New Jersey. If passed, the bill would lessen tensions between immigrants and immigration officials and further protect the rights of non-citizens. Below, our Tifton deportation defense lawyer explains further.

What is the New Proposed Law? 

The VISIBLE Act was proposed in early July of 2025 by Democratic Senators Cory Booker of New Jersey and Alex Padilla of California. The Act would require immigration enforcement officers, including ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to clearly display visible identification during public enforcement actions. Other specific provisions are included, such as:

• Requiring officials to clearly display legible identification, such as their name or badge number, or the name of the agency they work for or its initials
• Prohibiting non-medical face coverings such as balaclavas or other masks that obscure facial visibility or identity
• Requiring Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel to enforce the law and outline disciplinary actions for officers who violate it
• Requiring DHS to report to Congress annually regarding compliance
• Requiring DHS to investigate complaints

Why is the New Bill Important?

 The bill has not yet gone through the Senate but if passed, it would be great news for immigrant communities across the United States. When immigration officials appear at someone’s work, school, or church, it already creates an environment of fear and tension. When those officials are wearing plainclothes and full face coverings, the fear and tension only escalates.

Additionally, allowing immigration officials to apprehend individuals while not identifying themselves as government officials shields those agents from taking accountability for their actions. As has been seen over the past few months, the ICE raids have been aggressive and many immigrants are already facing fear when visiting locations that are part of their daily routines.

The law, if passed, would not only benefit immigrants, but immigration officials, too. Currently, there is a problem with people fighting back against immigration agents when they are apprehended in public. By identifying themselves as official agents, all officials can ensure individuals know who they are, preventing further possible attacks.

Our Deportation Defense Lawyer in Tifton Can Help with Your Case 

If you or someone you love has been apprehended by ICE or other immigration officials, you need help from a Tifton deportation defense lawyer. You have rights and it is important to ensure that they are enforced so you and your family are protected. For a consultation to discuss your case and needs, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611.

Source:

newsweek.com/ice-immigration-agents-forced-wear-visible-id-under-new-bill-visible-act-2096010#:~:text=The VISIBLE Act requires agents,from wearing most face coverings.