For the relief of Sindy Gualdina Rodriguez-Fernandez.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Moulton, Seth [D-MA-6]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 15, 2026
Bottom line
H.R. 10404 is a private relief bill designed to grant permanent residency to a specific individual, Sindy Gualdina Rodriguez-Fernandez, by overriding general immigration laws.
What it actually does
This bill grants Sindy Gualdina Rodriguez-Fernandez eligibility for lawful permanent resident status in the United States. It waives any existing grounds for her removal or denial of admission and mandates the rescission of any outstanding removal orders against her. The bill also specifies that her natural parents, brothers, and sisters will not receive any immigration benefits through their relationship with her.
Proponents argue
Supporters of private relief bills like this one argue they provide a compassionate pathway for individuals facing unique or compelling circumstances that are not adequately addressed by existing immigration laws. They contend that such bills allow Congress to exercise its constitutional authority to grant relief on a case-by-case basis, often for individuals who have demonstrated good character or have strong ties to the community, ensuring fairness where general statutes might fall short.
Opponents contend
Opponents typically argue that private relief bills undermine the established immigration system and can create a perception of unequal application of the law. They may contend that such bills bypass the standard vetting processes and could open the door to political favoritism or set undesirable precedents, suggesting that if an individual's case warrants relief, the general immigration laws should be amended rather than creating individual exceptions.
The bill is extremely short and clear, making it very accessible for a quick read and understanding of its direct purpose.
Section 1(a) and 1(b)
Permanent Resident Status Eligibility
This provision makes Sindy Gualdina Rodriguez-Fernandez eligible to apply for an immigrant visa or adjust her status to that of a lawful permanent resident, overriding certain general numerical limitations in immigration law. If she is already in the United States and applies within two years, she will be considered to have entered and remained lawfully, making her eligible for adjustment of status.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision provides a necessary and compassionate pathway for Ms. Rodriguez-Fernandez to regularize her status, acknowledging unique circumstances that may not be covered by general immigration statutes.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that granting status through a private bill bypasses the standard, merit-based immigration system, potentially setting a precedent for individual exceptions rather than systemic reform.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between the desire for individual compassionate relief and the principle of a uniform, consistently applied immigration system.
Section 1(c)
Waiver of Inadmissibility and Deportability Grounds
This section states that Sindy Gualdina Rodriguez-Fernandez cannot be removed from or denied admission to the United States, nor deemed ineligible for permanent residence, due to any grounds for removal or denial of admission recorded by the Department of Homeland Security or Department of State as of the bill's enactment date. It also requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to rescind any existing removal or deportation orders against her based on these grounds.
Section 1(e)
Immigrant Visa Number Reduction
Upon Sindy Gualdina Rodriguez-Fernandez receiving an immigrant visa or permanent residence, this provision mandates that the total number of immigrant visas available to natives of her country of birth be reduced by one in the current or next fiscal year. This ensures that her special grant of status does not increase the overall number of immigrants.
Section 1(f)
No Preferential Treatment for Relatives
This provision explicitly states that Sindy Gualdina Rodriguez-Fernandez's natural parents, brothers, and sisters will not receive any special immigration rights, privileges, or status under the Immigration and Nationality Act solely by virtue of their relationship to her. This prevents her private bill from creating a chain migration effect for her immediate family.