House bill shifts travel ban power from president to State Department

What does this do?

HR 924 would transfer the starting authority for travel restrictions on groups of non-citizens from the president to the Secretary of State, working with the Secretary of Homeland Security. Any restriction would have to be based on specific documented facts about security or safety threats, be as narrow as possible, carry a clear end date, and include a process for requesting exceptions. The bill also expands anti-discrimination rules in immigration law to cover religion and to apply to tourist visas, student visas, and other immigration benefits, not only immigrant visas.

Who does it affect?

Non-citizens seeking to enter the United States, including travelers, students, workers, and people seeking refugee status, are directly affected. US citizens and permanent residents with family abroad from countries subject to restrictions could also be indirectly impacted, as could the State Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and the president.

Why does it matter?

The administration would be required to brief Congress and submit a written report within 48 hours of issuing any travel restriction, explaining the reasons, the legal authority used, and how many people are affected. If that report is not delivered on time, the restriction would automatically end.

Where does it stand?