Noncitizens convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) may be denied a visa request or face deportation under a new House bill. The bill passed by a wide margin, with 274-150 votes for and against.

Already a basis for deportation in some situations, the bill addresses conflicts between state and federal law. For some jurisdictions, a past DUI conviction is not considered for an immigration case. That is no longer the case after the bill. Further, all misdemeanor DUI convictions are now grounds for inadmissibility and deportation.

The House bill now moves to the Senate for voting. The President would need to sign the Bill into law. Whether or not this is the final version of the bill or if additional edits would be made during the Senate review remains to be seen.

If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us at ILBSG. We actively monitor ongoing updates to immigration policy to ensure our clients get the right advice.