For the relief of Godfrey Oliver Wade.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Blair, Everton [D-GA-13]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 1, 2026
Bottom line
This private relief bill grants lawful permanent residency to a specific individual, Godfrey Oliver Wade, by bypassing general immigration rules and waiving past immigration issues.
What it actually does
This bill grants Godfrey Oliver Wade eligibility for lawful permanent resident status in the United States, overriding certain general immigration rules regarding numerical limitations and waiving any existing grounds for his removal or denial of admission. It requires him to apply within two years and stipulates that his immediate family members will not receive preferential immigration treatment through this bill.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that private relief bills address unique, compelling circumstances where existing immigration law does not provide an adequate remedy, ensuring fairness and humanitarian consideration for individuals like Godfrey Oliver Wade. They contend that this bill provides a necessary legislative intervention for a deserving individual whose case warrants special attention.
Opponents contend
Critics of private relief bills generally argue that they bypass established immigration processes, potentially setting precedents or creating an appearance of special treatment. They may contend that such cases should be handled through existing administrative or judicial channels, or that the specific circumstances of the individual do not warrant a legislative exemption from general immigration laws.
The bill is extremely short and straightforward, allowing for quick comprehension by any reader.
Section 1(a)
Grant of Permanent Resident Status
This section makes Godfrey Oliver Wade eligible for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident, overriding general immigration rules regarding numerical limitations (sections 201(a) and (b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act). This means he can become a permanent resident even if he would not qualify under standard quotas.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is the core of the bill, providing a direct and effective remedy for Godfrey Oliver Wade's unique immigration situation, which they believe warrants special legislative attention.
Critics contend
Opponents of private relief bills might argue that such direct legislative grants undermine the established, uniform immigration system, potentially creating a perception of unfairness or special privilege for individuals who can secure congressional sponsorship.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between adhering strictly to general immigration laws and providing a specific legislative remedy for an individual case deemed to have compelling circumstances.
Section 1(c)
Waivers of Inadmissibility and Deportability
This section ensures that Godfrey Oliver Wade cannot be removed from the U.S., denied admission, or deemed ineligible for permanent residence due to any grounds for removal or denial of admission that are already in the records of the Department of Homeland Security or Department of State as of the bill's enactment. It also mandates the rescission of any existing removal orders or findings of inadmissibility.
Section 1(e)
Immigrant Visa Number Reduction
Upon Godfrey Oliver Wade receiving an immigrant visa or permanent residence, this section requires the Secretary of State to reduce by one the total number of immigrant visas available to natives of his country of birth during the current or next fiscal year. This ensures that the grant of status to Wade does not increase the overall number of immigrants allowed.
This section explicitly states that Godfrey Oliver Wade's natural parents, brothers, and sisters will not be granted any immigration rights, privileges, or status based on their relationship to him.
Section 1(f)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for private relief bills to prevent a single grant of status from creating a chain migration effect for an entire family, ensuring the relief is strictly limited to the named individual.
Case for: Supporters argue this provision is essential to prevent unintended consequences and to ensure that the private relief is narrowly tailored to the individual's specific circumstances, rather than opening a pathway for multiple family members.
Case against: Critics might argue that, depending on the specific family circumstances, separating an individual from their immediate family members through such a provision could be seen as harsh or contrary to family unity principles, even if it's standard practice.
Estimated impact: Prevents an unspecified number of relatives (at least 3, potentially more) from gaining immigration benefits through this specific bill.