Bill > H0599

This bill establishes a comprehensive policy for U-visa certification in Florida, creating a detailed framework for how law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and judges can support immigrant victims of serious crimes in obtaining a U-visa, which is a special visa for crime victims who assist law enforcement. The bill defines numerous key terms, including what constitutes a "qualifying criminal activity" (which ranges from rape and human trafficking to witness tampering and stalking), and specifies that certifying officials must complete a Form I-918 Supplement B when a victim has been helpful or is likely to be helpful in investigating or prosecuting a crime. The legislation creates a rebuttable presumption that a victim is helpful if they have not refused to provide information to law enforcement, mandates that certification requests be processed within 90 days (or 14 days if the victim is in removal proceedings), and provides a mechanism for victims to petition a circuit court if their certification is denied. The bill also prohibits certifying agencies from disclosing a victim's immigration status, requires annual reporting on certification requests, provides immunity for certifying officials acting in good faith, and mandates that agencies develop internal procedures for processing these requests. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and aims to provide clearer guidelines and protections for immigrant crime victims seeking U-visas.

Justice

https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2026/599