Democrats file legislation to standardize U-visa process for immigrant victims of violence

Victims who help Florida police solve violent crimes could soon face fewer bureaucratic hurdles regarding their legal status under legislation introduced this month.

Sen. Tina Scott Polsky and Reps. Johanna López and Marie Woodson filed twin bills (SB 310, HB 599) meant to bring clarity and consistency to how Florida law enforcement agencies certify U-visa applications for immigrant victims cooperating in criminal investigations.

U-visas are a federal immigration tool designed to help law enforcement investigate and prosecute serious crimes, including domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking and gang-related offenses.

They allow qualifying victims who assist authorities to apply for temporary legal status and work authorization, offering protection from deportation while cases move forward. Federal law outlines eligibility requirements, but certification — confirmation that a victim has been helpful — is handled by local agencies.

Under current Florida law, there is no consistent timeline or standard for how agencies respond to certification requests. Consequently, some victims assisting police wait months or years for decisions, while others never receive a formal response, potentially undermining cases against violent offenders.

Polsky, López and Woodson’s proposal would change that by requiring agencies to act within defined timeframes, document decisions in writing and follow standardized procedures statewide.

Except under circumstances where there is “good cause for delay,” the legislation would mandate that an official or agency responsible for certifying a U-visa must grant or deny a request within 90 days of an application. If the applicant is in active removal proceedings, the time frame would be 14 days.

“This bill is about enforcing the law and making sure criminals are held accountable,” López, an Orlando Democrat, said in a statement.

“When victims cooperate with law enforcement, officers and prosecutors have the information they need to build strong cases and remove dangerous offenders from our communities. Right now, inconsistent and unclear procedures can slow down investigations. This bill sets clear rules, firm timelines, and accountability so law enforcement can do its job without unnecessary obstacles.”

Polsky, a Boca Raton Democrat, said in a statement that standardizing the process would help prevent serious crimes from going unsolved

“By offering temporary legal status and work authorization,” she said, “we encourage cooperation with law enforcement, making communities safer overall.”

Both SB 310 and HB 599, which has co-sponsorship support from Fort Lauderdale Democratic Rep. Daryl Campbell, have received committee referrals. It is uncertain how much play the measures will get in the GOP-dominated Legislature, which has passed several laws in recent years to crack down on illegal immigration.