S. 696: Protecting Our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act
Creates "Ukrainian guest status" for Ukrainians who entered the U.S. through the Uniting for Ukraine parole program (launched April 2022), granting them lawful status and employment authorization. Status expires 120 days after the Secretary of State certifies that hostilities in Ukraine have ceased and safe return is possible. Senate companion to H.R. 2118, introduced by Sen. Durbin with bipartisan support from Sens. Rosen, Duckworth, Van Hollen, Blumenthal, Klobuchar, and Welch.
Why it matters
Over 200,000 Ukrainians entered the U.S. through the Uniting for Ukraine parole program after Russia's full scale invasion. S. 696 would extend legal status and work authorization while the war continues, reducing uncertainty for families who built jobs, schools, and lives in the U.S. It is paired with H.R. 2118 in the House. Every Senate cosponsor brings the bill closer to a hearing. Ask both of your senators to cosponsor.
- Status
- In Committee
- Chamber
- Senate
- Committee
- Judiciary
- Sponsor
- Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
- Cosponsors
- 15
- Introduced
- 2025-02-24