Immigration under any administration is never easier. However, it has been significantly harder recently, which is why many have been wondering how the new administration will approach immigration policy.
A different approach
Immigration has been a hot topic for decades, and many previous administrations have attempted large (Herculean even) overhauls to the system. Though, this administration is more targeted in their approach. Specifically, they are first targeting legalization of the current undocumented population without the usual tie-ins of border and enforcement toughening.
Bipartisan approach?
The new administration is seeking bipartisan buy-in. But, unlike prior administrations, the dominate party is eager to get something done, even if it means doing it along party lines. This means it is likely that something will be done, and it will be done sooner, rather than later. This is especially true as a proposed immigration bill has already been introduced, something prior administrations have waited until a second term to even attempt.
New changes already
There have already been some changes to immigration. Specifically, there are new enforcement guidelines for federal immigration agencies. These new guidelines pause most deportations immediately, and this pause last for at least 100 days. The prior travel ban was also rescinded, along with the freezing of all border wall construction.
Immediate options
The first proposed piecemeal options address both the “Dreamers” and those on Temporary Protected Status. This would be targeted legislation to legalize both groups, about 2.5 million people currently in the U.S., which already passed the House in 2019. The thought is that, even if there is no bipartisan agreement on this, language to this effect can be added to the upcoming coronavirus relief bill that could be passed with a simple majority.
For Royal Oak, Michigan, residents, this all may sound like maybes and hopes, and for now, it very much is. Though, there is a significant push to make changes to immigration on both a small scale (rolling back the previous administration’s immigration executive orders) and large scale (enacting new laws). And, for those actually in the immigration process, it is always recommended to contact an attorney because the process is complicated.