PA HB1281

Establishes requirements for Pennsylvania law enforcement, prosecutors, and judicial offices to process U visa certification forms (Form I-918, Supplement B) for immigrant crime victims within 30 days, or 14 days for expedited requests involving removal proceedings or age-out situations

Requires certifying officials to authorize certifications when a petitioner was a victim of qualifying criminal activity, possesses information about the crime, and was or is likely to be helpful in detection, investigation, or prosecution

Prohibits officials from denying certifications based on time elapsed since the crime, lack of active investigation, absence of formal charges, or prosecution outcomes

Mandates written denial notices explaining reasons, requires referral to appropriate agencies within 30 days for jurisdictional denials, and prohibits disclosure of petitioner immigration status except as required by federal law or authorized by the victim

Requires annual compulsory training for certifying officials on certification protocols, victim impacts, and collaboration with victim service and immigrant advocacy providers; takes effect 60 days after enactment