Violence Against Women Act Privacy Protection Afforded
Prior to May 1998

On May 5, 1997, an INS memo informed all INS employees of their obligations under Section 384 of IIRAIRA and the potential liability for violation of these obligations. Section 384 prohibits the release of any information relating to applicants who are seeking or have been approved for immigrant status under the provisions for battered spouses and children in the Violence Against Women Act (the VAWA).

Violation of either of these prohibitions can result in disciplinary action or in civil penalties of up to $5,000 for each violation.