Republicans Kill Torres Amendment, But Admit There is a Problem
Republicans Deny Veterans Their Day in Court and Strip Critical Legal Protections
Washington, D.C – Today, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, introduced an amendment to the FY27 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill aimed at ensuring non-citizen veterans are not deported without access to legal counsel and a fair hearing.
The amendment would have prohibited federal funds from being used to deport a veteran unless they are first provided legal representation and due process in immigration court, and it would require transparent reporting on how many veterans are impacted by Donald Trump’s immigration policies.
During consideration of the amendment, Republicans introduced a change replacing these legal protections with a statement that merely reaffirms current law. The statement by House Republicans admits the reality that there is a serious problem with this Administration deporting veterans, but fails to address the serious gaps that continue to leave veterans vulnerable to deportation without adequate protections.
“In my district, I’ve seen veterans, especially Latino veterans, treated with suspicion, questioned, and targeted, even after serving our country with honor. It’s happening to people who wore the uniform and came home expecting dignity, not fear. My amendment would actually change the law and ensure veterans get a fair day in court before facing deportation,” said Congresswoman Torres. “Republicans chose to offer an amendment that admits that Donald Trump’s immigration policies have created a severe problem in this country for more than 100,000 non-citizen veterans, but ultimately does nothing more than restate the law as it already exists. It’s a first step, admitting you have a problem and I’m glad we are taking a step. But that’s not leadership, that’s avoidance. If you wore the uniform of our country, you deserve due process, dignity, and respect. Republicans seem intent on ignoring the problems being created by Donald Trump and his minions.”
Congresswoman Torres continues to lead efforts in Congress to protect veterans, uphold due process, and ensure the federal government is held accountable in its treatment of those who served.
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