This bill amends Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to establish a framework for issuing Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Predicate Orders in juvenile court. It recognizes the need for state court orders that contain specific factual determinations necessary for vulnerable youth to apply for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, a federal immigration visa category. The bill introduces a new subchapter that outlines definitions, jurisdiction, and procedures for juvenile courts to make these predicate findings, which include whether reunification with a juvenile's parents is viable and whether it is in the juvenile's best interest to remain in the U.S.

Key provisions include the establishment of a presumption that it is not in the best interest of the juvenile to return to their country of nationality if certain protective orders are granted, and the burden of proof for these orders is set at a preponderance of evidence. The bill also emphasizes confidentiality regarding the immigration status of juveniles involved in these proceedings and allows juvenile courts to issue predicate orders sua sponte if warranted. Additionally, it provides for the possibility of waiving service or notice to a parent who has abandoned the juvenile for at least six months. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 2910 (Feb 12, 2026): 42-63