Sponsors (8)
The bill trades a clear, enforceable statutory authority to bar Somali nationals (simplifying adjudication for authorities and reducing some case-by-case litigation) against severe rights and humanitarian impacts on Somali nationals and families, likely diplomatic fallout, and new litigation and administrative costs for U.S. agencies and taxpayers.
Federal immigration authorities and adjudicators: gain clear statutory authority and a categorical rule that simplifies visa adjudication and enforcement decisions (reducing case-by-case processing).
Some public-safety stakeholders and government programs: may face fewer individual relief adjudications and certain removal-related proceedings for Somali nationals, potentially lowering specific litigation and operational caseloads.
U.S. citizens and communities (as argued by proponents): could see reduced immigration from Somalia while the moratorium/bars are in effect, which supporters claim may protect perceived public order or national sovereignty in the near term.
Somali nationals, refugees, and asylum seekers: would be categorically barred from obtaining visas, asylum, or other immigration relief (including under 8 U.S.C. §1231(b)(3)) for the duration specified, denying protection and family-reunification pathways and increasing humanitarian risk.
U.S. diplomatic relations and international reputation: singling out one nationality could be perceived as discriminatory, strain relations with Somalia and partners, and complicate humanitarian and foreign-policy operations.
Federal agencies and taxpayers: the nationality-based exclusions are likely to trigger litigation and increased administrative burdens (more enforcement actions, legal defense, and court workload), imposing fiscal and operational costs on DHS, DOS, EOIR and taxpayers.
Based on analysis of 4 sections of legislative text.
Prohibits visas, admission, and certain removal-relief for Somali citizens and nationals for 25 years, with narrow exceptions for some current lawful residents and specified official visa holders.
Imposes a 25-year moratorium that bars issuance of visas, admission, or most forms of immigration relief to citizens and nationals of Somalia, with narrow exceptions for certain people already lawfully admitted, lawful permanent residents, and holders of specified diplomatic or official nonimmigrant visas. Amends existing immigration law to add a categorical inadmissibility ground and to make Somali nationals ineligible for a statutory form of removal-relief, and includes a severability clause so other provisions remain if part is struck down.
Introduced February 4, 2026 by Brandon Gill · Last progress February 4, 2026