Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act of 2025

# Immigrant Witness and Victim Protection Act of 2025 **What the Bill Does** This bill would protect immigrants who are victims of or witnesses to crimes by allowing them to cooperate with law enforcement without fear of deportation. The measure aims to encourage immigrants—regardless of their legal status—to report crimes to police and testify in criminal cases. By removing immigration-related consequences for participating in the justice system, the bill seeks to make communities safer by ensuring crimes are reported and prosecuted effectively. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects undocumented immigrants and those with uncertain immigration status who have witnessed crimes or been victimized.

It would also benefit law enforcement agencies and prosecutors who need witness cooperation to solve and prosecute cases. While the bill's specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, similar legislation typically protects immigrants from deportation while they cooperate with authorities and may provide certain legal status protections during that cooperation period. **Current Status** As of now, HR 4817 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet moved forward for a full vote in the House. The bill was sponsored by Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA).