Should people under immigraton inspection have a right to counsel?

Immigration
Access to Counsel Act of 2020 (H.R. 5581)
Awaiting Vote
Bill Summary

This bill gives various protections for U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, aliens in possession of a visa, and refugees subject to secondary or deferred inspections when coming into the U.S. These protections include making sure people have meaningful opportunity to speak with counsel or related parties like relatives within an hour of an inspection starting. It may not seem like they are related to the bill, but this is because representatives sometimes use amendments as an opportunity to bring new issues to the table or change how the bill will be received or voted on. (House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 2486) Sponsor: Rep. Pramila Jayapal (Democrat, Washington, District 7)
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Opponents say

• “Democrats understand that it’s a bridge too far to outright repeal the Immigration and Nationality Act provision prohibiting taxpayer-funded counsel during removal proceedings. H.R. 5581 is their way of testing how far they can go.” Source: Rep. Doug Collins (Republican, Georgia, District 9)

Proponents say

• “For years, this president and his administration have demonized immigrants and committed human rights abuses against immigrants seeking refuge in our country. Enough is enough… We must take steps to affirm the basic human dignity of those who come to our country seeking a better life, and that starts with ensuring legal representation to those who cross the border and fixing the inhumane conditions at ICE detention centers.” Source: Sen. Kamala Harris (Democrat, California)
• “The day after the President signed his inhumane Muslim Ban executive order, innocent men, women and children at Seattle-Tacoma and airports across the country were detained and barred from entering the United States without any access to counsel… Unlawfully detaining and deporting individuals is wrong, and denying them access to an attorney is a gross violation of basic rights. To uphold principles of due process and fair treatment, this bill will ensure the government gives individuals access to an attorney.” Source: Rep. Pramila Jayapal (Democrat, Washington, District 7)
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