Bowling Green Today

Yesterday, U.S. Senator Rand Paul and Senator Richard Blumenthal reintroduced the Temporary Family Visitation Act (TFVA). This act aims to establish a new nonimmigrant category, the B-3 visa, which would allow U.S. citizens and permanent residents to petition for their family members to obtain temporary visas.

Currently, family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents can only apply for B2 visas to visit their relatives. However, the current immigration law lacks a direct pathway for families to temporarily reunite for important family events such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, funerals, and holidays.

According to Dr. Rand Paul, "The Temporary Family Visitation Act is a great step forward in allowing family members of U.S. citizens/permanent residents to responsibly visit the United States for memorable occasions such as weddings, births, and graduations." He further emphasized that the legislation would strengthen the economy through indirect spending and has the support of a large coalition of groups.

Senator Blumenthal also expressed his support for the bill, stating, "This bill is pretty simple: we want to make it easier for close family members to see their grandchildren baptized, their children married, or their nieces and nephews graduate from college." He highlighted the importance of being physically present for these significant life events.

If enacted, the Temporary Family Visitation Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act and establish a separate nonimmigrant classification under the B visa category. This classification would be available to family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents who are residents of countries not included in the Visa Waiver Program. The duration of stay would be limited to 90 days.

In addition to facilitating family reunions, the TFVA also serves to promote U.S. national interests. By supporting the principle of family reunion, this act aims to strengthen the economy and reduce unintended immigrant visa applications.

To ensure responsible enforcement of the TFVA, certain requirements must be met. Each petitioner must sign an affidavit of financial support, and each applicant must purchase travel medical insurance for the duration of their stay. These requirements are in place to dissuade visa overstays and provide financial assurance to the U.S. government.

The Temporary Family Visitation Act has the potential to make a significant impact on families who wish to temporarily reunite for important life events. By establishing a clear pathway for family members to visit the United States, this legislation recognizes the importance of family unity while also addressing concerns about immigration enforcement.

To read the full text of the Temporary Family Visitation Act, please visit the official website of Senator Rand Paul.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.paul.senate.gov/dr-rand-paul-and-senator-richard-blumenthal-reintroduce-the-temporary-family-visitation-act/