The Kayla Hamilton Act strengthens federal procedures for handling unaccompanied immigrant children in U.S. custody by adding new vetting requirements and placement restrictions. Before placing a child, the Department of Health and Human Services must consult with the Department of Homeland Security and Attorney General to assess whether the child is a flight risk, poses a danger, or has criminal history. For children age 12 and older, the bill requires officials to obtain criminal records from the child's home country and screen for gang-related tattoos or markings. Children identified as flight risks or dangers must be placed in secure facilities rather than released to sponsors. The bill also prohibits placement with individuals who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, or who have convictions for serious crimes including sex offenses, human trafficking, domestic violence, and other felonies. Before any placement, HHS must share detailed information about the sponsor and household members—including names, social security numbers, addresses, and criminal background check results—with Homeland Security. The law takes effect immediately upon enactment and applies to all pending and future custody determinations.
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