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NM SB31

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/21/2026

Primary Sponsor

Antoinette Sedillo Lopez

Click for details

Origin

Senate

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Establishes procedures for crime victims to request U visa certification from state and local law enforcement agencies, district attorneys, courts, and certain state agencies to support federal immigration applications

  • Requires certifying officials to process standard requests within 30 days and expedited requests (for victims in removal proceedings) within 14 days

  • Limits grounds for denial to cases where victims refuse to provide information or assistance after reasonable requests; prohibits denial based on case closure, prosecution status, acquittal, or statute of limitations expiration

  • Creates a multi-level appeal process: internal agency appeal within 30 days, followed by state Department of Justice review within 14 days, and ultimately petition to district court

  • Requires certifying agencies to publish procedures online, maintain records of certification requests and outcomes, and report implementation data to the legislature or Department of Justice upon request

Legislative Description

U Visa Certification Act

Last Action

Sent to SCC - Referrals: SCC/SHPAC/SJC

1/21/2026

Committee Referrals

Committees1/21/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available