WASHINGTON DC —(WOWO) Indiana Congressman Jefferson Shreve is introducing new legislation aimed at tightening immigration data systems and improving how quickly federal records are updated and shared with state agencies.
The proposal, known as the VERIFY Act of 2026, comes amid concerns raised after several deadly crashes involving drivers who were not authorized to be in the United States.
WHAT THE BILL DOES
Under the legislation, federal immigration records would be required to be updated within 24 hours, a significant change designed to address what lawmakers describe as delays in current systems.
The bill also seeks to modernize the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system, which state and local agencies use to confirm immigration status and eligibility information.
SHREVE: SYSTEM NEEDS MODERNIZATION
Rep. Shreve says the goal is to close what he calls dangerous gaps in federal data reporting, arguing that outdated or delayed information can hinder law enforcement and state agencies.
He says faster updates would ensure officials have accurate, real-time information to help improve public safety, particularly on roadways.
SAFETY AND DATA SHARING FOCUS
Supporters of the legislation argue that improving the timeliness of immigration records could help prevent situations where outdated data impacts enforcement or verification decisions.
The bill places emphasis on coordination between federal immigration agencies and state departments, especially those involved in licensing and public safety.
NEXT STEPS IN CONGRESS
The VERIFY Act now moves into the early stages of the legislative process, where it will be reviewed by committee before any potential floor vote.
No timeline has been set for consideration.
BOTTOM LINE
Rep. Jefferson Shreve’s VERIFY Act of 2026 proposes a major overhaul of federal immigration data systems, requiring faster updates and expanded modernization of the SAVE database—framed as a public safety measure following recent fatal crashes involving unauthorized drivers.
