H.C.R. 232 Summary

• Urges Congress to reform the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 and other federal immigration laws to classify climate-related migrants as refugees eligible for greater legal status and protection.

• Requests amendment of section 101(a)(42)(B) of the Immigration and Nationality Act to exempt climate-related migrants displaced by sea-level rise, desertification, or climate-exacerbated natural disasters from persecution requirements for refugee qualification.

• Calls on the U.S. Department of Justice to recognize the special circumstances of applicants from developing nations vulnerable to climate change when determining special humanitarian concern status.

• Directs transmission of the resolution to the President, Attorney General, Congressional leadership, and relevant federal agencies including USCIS and the Executive Office for Immigration Review.

• Emphasizes Hawaii's unique perspective as an island state understanding small island nation challenges and notes the state's immigrant heritage and global environmental crisis responsibilities.