WASHINGTON— Today, the House of Representatives passed the Access to Counsel Act. The bill would ensure that those with valid travel documents legally entering the United States can communicate with family, counsel, or another interested party if they are detained for a secondary inspection by CBP for more than one hour. Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva, a cosponsor of the legislation, issued the following statement after voting in favor:

“It’s absurd that those legally entering the United States who have already gone through the vetting process are subjected to prolonged detention at the border and denied access to their family or counsel. Those facing arbitrary detention at our ports of entry deserve access to counsel to assist them in navigating complex immigration laws and provide necessary documentation that could resolve any issues with CBP. I’m proud this legislation safeguards due process for those seeking lawful entry into the United States and ensures they are treated with the respect they deserve.”

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