U-visa Certification Policy

The U-visa Certification Policy bill aimed to establish clear responsibilities for officials who certify U-visa applications, ensuring timely responses and protecting the privacy of applicants. It proposed that if a request for certification was denied, the official would have to provide written notice to the applicant. Additionally, the bill sought to create reporting requirements and grant immunity to certifying officials.

FL H0599 is a house bill in the Florida 2026 Sixth Special Session, sponsored by Johanna Lopez (D), currently “Failed” since March 13, 2026.

We track 326 Florida bills this session, 5 of them sponsored by Johanna Lopez.

Supporters of the U-visa Certification Policy bill would argue that it enhances protections for victims of crimes who seek legal status in the U.S., promoting public safety and cooperation with law enforcement. They would emphasize the importance of timely responses and privacy protections for individuals who may be afraid to come forward due to their immigration status.

Critics of the U-visa Certification Policy bill might contend that it could complicate the certification process and create unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. They might argue that the bill's provisions could lead to inconsistencies in how certifications are handled across different agencies, potentially undermining the effectiveness of the U-visa program.