The bill amends Chapter 14-1 of the General Laws, titled "Proceedings in Family Court," by adding a new section, 14-1-5.2, which expands the jurisdiction of the family court to make factual findings necessary for petitions for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS). The court will be able to determine whether a child has been declared dependent on the court, whether reunification with parents is not viable due to abuse or neglect, and whether it is in the child's best interest to remain in the U.S. rather than return to their country of nationality. The term "child" is defined to include any unmarried person under the age of twenty-one who files a petition for relief under this section.

Additionally, the family court will maintain jurisdiction to make these findings for any petitioner under twenty-one at the time of filing, even if they turn eighteen before the court issues its findings. Petitions for factual findings can be filed independently or alongside other family court proceedings, such as guardianship or adoption. Importantly, the court's jurisdiction is limited to making factual determinations for SIJS petitions and does not confer any independent immigration status. This act will take effect upon passage.