As the Trump administration moves to reinstate a controversial travel ban affecting Muslim-majority countries, Democratic lawmakers have reintroduced the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants (NO BAN) Act to prevent future presidents from imposing religious-based immigration restrictions.
Democrats Push Legislation to Block Religious Discrimination
Led by Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Sen. Chris Coons (DE), the NO BAN Act seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act, prohibiting religious discrimination in visa policies. It also ensures that any travel restrictions must be justified by credible security concerns and undergo congressional oversight.
Trump Signals New Travel Ban with Executive Order
On his first day back in office, President Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to review immigration screening processes within 60 days. This move is widely seen as a step toward reviving the Muslim Ban—a policy from his first term that faced widespread criticism.
Lawmakers Condemn the Move
🗣 Rep. Judy Chu: “The first Muslim Ban was driven by bigotry and caused immense harm. Now, Trump is laying the groundwork for its return. The NO BAN Act is crucial to ensuring no president can enforce a religious ban again.”
🗣 Sen. Chris Coons: “Trump’s first ban damaged America’s global reputation. We must act now to prevent another discriminatory policy.”
Key Features of the NO BAN Act
✔ Prohibits religious discrimination in all U.S. immigration laws.
✔ Requires legitimate security justifications for any travel restrictions.
✔ Mandates congressional notification within 48 hours of a new travel ban.
Additional Protections: Access to Counsel Act
Alongside the NO BAN Act, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Sen. Alex Padilla (CA) have reintroduced the Access to Counsel Act, ensuring that legal residents detained by CBP for over an hour have the right to a lawyer. This responds to the chaotic airport detentions under Trump’s 2017 travel ban.
Widespread Opposition from Lawmakers and Advocates
📢 Rep. Jerry Nadler (NY-12): “No president should use fear and prejudice to justify discrimination. The NO BAN Act reflects American values.”
📢 Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12): “Millions suffered under Trump’s hateful ban. We must ensure it never happens again.”
📢 Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05): “I’ve seen firsthand the devastation these bans cause. The NO BAN Act is vital.”
📢 Rep. André Carson (IN-07): “Trump’s ban fueled Islamophobia and hate crimes. Bringing it back will only deepen divisions.”
Major civil rights organizations, including the ACLU, Muslim Advocates, National Immigration Law Center, and MPower Change, have also voiced strong support for the bill.
A Tough Battle in Congress
With Trump pushing forward on his immigration agenda, Democrats are mobilizing to prevent future religious-based travel bans. The NO BAN Act now awaits debate in Congress, but faces tough political opposition.
Advocacy groups urge Americans to speak out and demand action to protect religious freedom and prevent discrimination in U.S. immigration policies.
