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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Mayra Flores (R-TX), and Greg Steube (R-FL) announced the introduction of the Justice for Victims of Open Borders Act, a bill that would reform grant disbursements through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) so that states must give priority to victims of violent crimes committed by people who are in the United States illegally.

“The Biden administration’s cataclysmic failures at our nation’s southern border have led to a sizable surge in violent crime that puts every American and their families at risk,” said Representative Foxx. “It’s evident that President Biden is unwilling to address this issue, so we’re taking a stand. I am immensely pleased to have two stalwart Republican leaders, Representative Mayra Flores, and Representative Greg Steube, co-lead this vital legislation. Their commitment to upholding law and order, and to protect every American citizen, is highly commendable.”

“It’s important that victims of crime, committed by illegal immigrants, know that state and federal resources are with them in their time of need,” said Representative Flores. “I want victims to concentrate and prioritize their recovery and I thank my colleagues for helping me tackle this issue head-on.” 

“For the safety of our nation and its citizens, we must address the rising crime due to Democrats’ open border policies. That starts with accurate reporting and transparency so the American people can see for themselves the extent of crimes committed by illegal aliens,” said Representative Steube. “Equally as important, the Justice for Victims of Open Borders Act will ensure support is available for victims of violent crimes committed by illegal aliens.”

Background

The Justice for Victims of Open Borders Act is a viable solution to address the influx of illegal aliens and rising crime due to open border policies – two issues that the federal government, and especially President Biden, have failed to address. Since this is a federal failure, a federal remedy is necessary, and Congress has the prerogative to encourage the states to help themselves.

Specifically, this bill would:

• Require states to consolidate crime data to create an accurate system of reporting.
• Direct every State Attorney General to certify with the Department of Justice and the Attorney General that their respective state gives priority to victims of crimes committed by people “who do not have lawful status in the United States.”
• Yield more transparency to the American people through the public accounting of crimes committed by illegal aliens in the United States.