Neighbors Not Enemies Act

# Neighbors Not Enemies Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The Neighbors Not Enemies Act would remove a federal law that allows the President to arrest and deport citizens of a foreign country during wartime or if that country threatens to invade the U.S. Specifically, it repeals provisions that grant the President broad authority to apprehend and remove nationals of an enemy nation from American territory based solely on their citizenship. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** This bill would primarily affect foreign nationals living in the U.S. during wartime or national security crises. The law being repealed dates back to historical periods when such provisions were used—most notably, it relates to authorities used during World War II to intern Japanese Americans and other foreign nationals.

By repealing this provision, the bill would eliminate one legal tool the executive branch could use to detain people based on national origin alone. The bill essentially prevents future use of citizenship-based mass removal powers. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. No companion bill has been identified in the House at this time.