U VISA CERTIFICATION ACT

SB 31, the U Visa Certification Act, creates a standardized process for New Mexico victims of serious crimes (like domestic violence, trafficking, or assault) to obtain state certification needed for federal U visas. It requires local law enforcement, prosecutors, and courts to process certification requests within 30 days (14 days for urgent cases) and provides clear appeal steps if denied. Victims must have assisted investigations, but certifications cannot be denied due to case closures or lack of convictions. The law specifies qualifying crimes, defines key terms, and mandates written explanations for denials to streamline access to federal immigration relief without altering U visa eligibility rules.