Immigration Law Reform Blog

LA Mayor will be chairman of Democratic National Convention

2012-02-16T13:20:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles' Hispanic mayor has been tabbed to be the Chairman of the Democratic National Convention in 2012. The choice of Antonio Villaraigosa perhaps indicates how important the Democrats think the Latino vote will be in the upcoming election.

The article can be found on the KABC.com website at:

http://www.kabc.com/Article.asp?id=2396017&spid=38628

Anti-immigration advertisements reach new levels:

2012-02-15T10:40:00.000-08:00

Recent anti-immigrant sentiment from such groups as FAIR have taken to the air-waves with anti-immigration political advertisements that take this political topic to a new level. Now, these advertisements are calling for the halt of "legal" immigration, until job are filled with American-born workers. Many entrepreneurs disagree with this message, arguing that many new businesses that would hire workers are started by foreign investors.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/14/anti-legal-immigration-ad_n_1276284.html

DOL changes guest worker regs:

2012-02-13T13:15:00.000-08:00

The Obama administration has changed the rules relating to guest workers under the H-2B visa program. Under the changes, the window for hiring Americans is longer, and the employer must pay, among other things, transportation costs too and from and employees home country. Hat tip to the Immigration Prof blog.

The article can be found on the NY Times website at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/11/us/rules-revised-for-h-2b-guest-worker-program.html?_r=2&emc=eta1

These new final rules can be found on the Department of Labor's website at:

http://www.dol.gov/whd/immigration/H2BFinalRule/H-2B_NPRM.pdf

Amnesty not a dirty word:

2012-02-10T09:02:00.000-08:00

In the Reagan years, "amnesty" for illegal immigrants was not considered a four-letter word, but rather a way for those affected to gain a sense of dignity. Taken in context of the time, this amnesty was paid for by those awarded this "status" in the form of high administrative fees to file the paperwork.

The article can be found on the LA Times website at:

http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/la-oe-shakely-amnesty-20120210,0,5950103.story?track=rss

Immigration path can be deadly:

2012-02-09T08:10:00.001-08:00

This story chronicles the sometimes deadly results of seeking legal immigration status, recounting the efforts of an American citizen husband who was gunned-down in Juarez after he joined his wife in Mexico as she awaited a visa-waiver. Proposed new rules would enable such a waiver to be filed while the applicant remains in the United States.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2012/02/09/us/juarez-dangerous-marriage/index.html?hpt=hp_c2

ICE Director: Reform will take compromise

2012-02-07T12:23:00.000-08:00

ICE Director John Morton, speaking at the University of Virginia Law School, said that his agency is working on targeting "criminals" for removal proceedings. If the agency only has the resources to remove 400,000 a year, priorities must be set. Morton also explains that the current system doesn't work and has needed a fix for over 40 years, but nobody can agree on what the change should look like.

The article can be found on the Daily Progress website at:

http://www2.dailyprogress.com/news/2012/feb/06/ice-leader-uva-focus-shifts-deporting-illegals-who-ar-1668966/

Kansas: a schizophrenic immigration policy

2012-02-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

If your confused about what to do about undocumented residents, whether to support comprehensive immigration reform, or to pass the DREAM Act; so too is the state of Kansas. Kansas has a governor who worked on a version of the DREAM Act as a legislator, but then voted it down. The Secretary of State wants to deport all "illegals" while the Agriculture Secretary wants to petition the federal government to allow undocumented residents the ability to work hard-to-fill agriculture jobs. What is it going to be, Kansas?

The article can be found on the Kansas City Star website at:

http://www.kansascity.com/2012/02/07/3408139/commentary-kansas-schizophrenic.html

Immigrants will matter in NV race:

2012-02-06T13:11:00.000-08:00

Over 25-percent of the voting population of Nevada is Latino, and these voters care about immigration issues. With the top GOP candidates being decidedly anti-immigrant, this could make for interesting results.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/adam-luna/immigration-latino-voters_b_1253295.html

Strong-arm tactics at the border?

2012-02-04T08:24:00.000-08:00

Currently, a Libyan-born naturalized citizen has been denied re-entry to the US after a humanitarian trip to his home country. FBI agents questioned him about his possible knowledge of terrorist plans and prevented his boarding a flight to America in Tunisia.

The article can be found on the Oregon Live website at:

http://www.oregonlive.com/tigard/index.ssf/2012/02/tigard_businessman_blocked_fro.html

Will they compromise?

2012-02-03T12:14:00.000-08:00

The Republicans have recently suggested a scaled-down version of the DREAM Act where a path to citizenship for undocumented residents is available to some who serve in the military.

The article can be found on The Hill website at:

http://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/208469-dems-face-tricky-immigration-choice-

Her english good enough for office?

2012-01-30T17:38:00.000-08:00

Recently, a Latino for city counsel in San Luis, Arizona was taken off the ballot because she did not speak good enough English. A county judge ruled that her proficiency wasn't good enough to perform the duties of the office.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2012/01/30/city-council-hopeful-my-english-is-good-enough/?hpt=hp_bn1

Two-faced Obama:

2012-01-30T10:12:00.000-08:00

President Obama in last week's State of the Union address appears two-faced in his support for immigration reform. On one hand he touted his enforcement policies that has led to the removal of more undocumented citizens than under the Bush administration, while at the same time stating he would sign the DREAM Act if sent to him by Congress.

Ruben Navarrette's op ed piece can be found on the News-Press website at:

http://www.news-press.com/article/20120130/OPINION/301300008/1015/Two-faced-Obama-talks-DREAM-Act-sanctions-deportations?odyssey=nav|head

Actions speak louder than words:

2012-01-27T08:20:00.000-08:00

In Tuesday night's State of the Union address, President Obama implored Congress to send him a version of the DREAM Act and he'd pass it. He called for Congress to take up comprehensive immigration reform. But, yet, his administration has boosted the number of deportations under his watch.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sayu-bhojwani/sotu-2012-immigration-reform_b_1231701.html

Immigration reform stance scrutinized:

2012-01-24T09:12:00.001-08:00

Ahead of the upcoming Florida primary, the stance of GOP candidates on immigration reforms (or lack of) is already being scrutinized. Florida is considered the only state where courting Latino voters really matters. Also making Florida different, is that immigration reform isn't a "hot button" topic to much of the state's Latinos, since the two biggest groups are primarily US citizens already.

The article can be found on the Mid-South NPR website at:

http://www.wknofm.org/post/candidates-stance-immigration-reform-scrutinized-ahead-florida-primary

Romney for amnesty?

2012-01-23T11:31:00.000-08:00

Is Mitt Romney in favor of amnesty for undocumented residents after all? Much like his GOP opponent Gingrich, Romney wrote on behalf of a soon-to-be deported resident as a "special" case. It seems for both these candidates, when common sense favors "amnesty" the candidates support it.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/23/mitt-romney-newt-gingrich-immigration-amnesty_n_1223327.html

Many spared removal:

2012-01-20T08:46:00.000-08:00

An initial look at the Obama administration's call for review of all removal cases has seen 1-in-6 getting a reprieve and be allowed to remain in the United States, though without legal status. Non-criminals with strong ties to the community where generally allowed to stay. Hat tip to the immigration prof blog.

The article can be found on the New York Times website at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/20/us/in-test-of-deportation-policy-1-in-6-offered-reprieve.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2&emc=eta1

Romney has Latino fences to mend:

2012-01-20T08:06:00.001-08:00

Republican candidate Mitt Romney has some fences to mend if he hopes to gain the Latino vote in the upcoming election. Some say the Latino vote is crucial for winning the presidency, and to gain that, a Republican candidate would have to support such measures as the DREAM Act.

The article can be found on the New America Media website at:

http://news.newamericamedia.org/news/view_article.html?article_id=2137a4b7e301f75f8d1b63d3ccaf20d3

2012 immigration heroes:

2012-01-18T09:08:00.001-08:00

As proposed by the Huffington Post, the 2010 immigration heroes have been named. Included in the list are New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Arizonan Randy Parraz who successfully led the recall petition effort against the Arizona politician who was instrumental in the passage of SB 1070, and a variety of pro-immigrant members of Congress.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/amy-novick/immigrations-top-10-heroe_b_1210092.html

Wrinkle in law lets some stay:

2012-01-17T09:53:00.000-08:00

An undocumented resident who came across the American border as a young child has been awarded a green card. The primary reason was that he was "inspected and admitted legally" at the border. Since the border patrol did not contest his admission to the country, his status in the US is deemed legal.

The article can be found on the Sacramento Bee's website at:

http://www.sacbee.com/2012/01/17/4192688/immigration-laws-wrinkle-keeps.html

Border patrol changing tactics:

2012-01-17T09:38:00.000-08:00

In an effort to prevent the immediate return of undocumented residents to the US after their "removal," the border patrol is changing their tactics. Such changes include "removing" them to Mexico City by plane, or removing them from the US at a border town hundreds of miles away from where they were caught.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/17/border-patrol-to-toughen-policy_n_1210336.html

Legally married, facing deportation:

2012-01-12T07:13:00.000-08:00

Interesting story of one same-sex couple who were legally married in California in 2008. Now, the French-citizen spouse is facing deportation because he has run out of visa options, and the Federal Government does not recognize gay marriage as a basis for citizenship based on marriage to a US citizen.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2012/01/11/us/philadelphia-gay-couple-deportation/index.html?hpt=hp_bn1

Scholarships not for illegals in WA:

2012-01-11T07:28:00.000-08:00

Unlike in California, many college scholarships offered in other states are not available to students who are undocumented residents. Though likely eligible for a state scholarship, students such as the ones featured in this article cannot apply, they don't have a social security number. Often the children of low-income workers, the cost of higher education is frequently out of their reach. One such undocumented student is studying horticulture at a community college, he figures he can use this degree to better his position as an agriculture worker; likely the only job he can get without work authorization.

The article can be found on the Seattletimes website at:

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/education/2017206167_collegebound11m.html

House dems welcome Obama adminisration's immigration change:

2012-01-09T12:53:00.000-08:00

House Democrats welcome the Obama administration's proposed administrative changes to immigration rules. These changes are seen by liberals as a move toward a "common sense immigration policy" that places economic and family values at the front of immigration reform.

The article can be found on The Hill website at:

http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/202983-liberals-cheer-proposed-white-house-immigration-reform

Proposed changes to waiver rule on immigration ban:

2012-01-06T09:13:00.000-08:00

The Obama administration is planning an Administrative Rule change to shorten the time undocumented parents who are removed from the country are separated from their US citizen children. Under the new rule, an application for a waiver of the three or ten-year bar on re-entry American can be filed before the applicant leaves the United States.

The article can be found on the Time.com website at:

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,2103877,00.html

Romney and advisor at odds over immigration:

2012-01-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

One of Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney's advisers lobbied in favor of the DREAM Act, a piece of legislation that the GOP candidate has promised voters he would veto if ever passed by Congress. Political operative Charlie Black has lobbied for Wal-Mart in support of the DREAM Act, a path to legal status for certain undocumented residents.

The article can be found on the Salon.com website at:

http://www.salon.com/2012/01/05/romney_and_adviser_at_odds_on_immigration/singleton/

Immigrants a symptom, not cause of the problem:

2012-01-04T11:52:00.000-08:00

A former border patrol agent is now using his gift of music to help people better understand the impact immigrants have on America. Through his years working at the border, he came to understand that the presence of immigrants in America are often a symptom of many problems, but not the cause.

The article can be found on the Fox News Latino website at:

http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/lifestyle/2012/01/03/promoting-immigration-reform-with-music/

How doesn't a deportation affect a child?

2012-01-03T08:34:00.000-08:00

The deportation of an immigrant's parents affects all areas of that child's life. The "dream" of an education is greatly reduced for these children, not only due to the lack of financial support, but because they are often forced to move-in with extended family or others in the community. Such a transition is difficult.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/melissa-bollow-tempel/deporting-elenas-father_b_1178975.html?ref=immigration

Mexican immigrants kept down by "perfect storm" of laws:

2011-12-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

A "perfect storm" of anti-immigrant legislation since the 1970's has made it difficult for many Mexican immigrants to America to get ahead. Between the 19060's and 2007, the income of Mexican-born workers has actually declined when adjusted for inflation. According to a report written by a Princeton sociologist, "discrimination against a large number of Mexicans is mandated by federal law."

The article can be found on the Miller-McCune website at:

http://www.miller-mccune.com/business-economics/why-mexican-immigrants-cant-get-ahead-38555/

Immigration is really messed up:

2011-12-20T12:27:00.000-08:00

"Immigration is really messed up," said the co-leader of the Chipotle restaurant chain who was the victim a so-called silent immigration raid that led to hundreds of undocumented workers being let go earlier last year. While he doesn't offer any solutions, he has told multiple members of Congress that he and other business owners need access to a dependable and legal work force.

The article can be found on the Denver Post website at:

http://www.denverpost.com/business/ci_19582142

Five- year immigration struggle ends in reunification:

2011-12-19T09:50:00.002-08:00

An asylum seeker's battle for residence status finally ended in success. After multiple appeals, an immigration judge decided that the father's child had suffered enough. Interesting that the decision was apparently based on the citizen child's suffering rather than the merits of the immigrant petition.

The article can be found on the Oregonian website at:

http://www.oregonlive.com/beaverton/index.ssf/2011/12/victory_at_last_after_a_five-y.html

2011-12-19T09:50:00.001-08:00

Cash-for-visas program:

2011-12-19T09:07:00.000-08:00

EB-5 visas, which exchange significant investment for a visa that can lead to the coveted "green card" are now seen as a way for wealthy immigrants to "buy" a visa and citizenship for their children. What began as a program targeted at improving the economy in under-developed neighborhoods has created a market for visas under the guise of legal immigration policies.

The article can be found on the NY Times website at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/19/nyregion/new-york-developers-take-advantage-of-financing-for-visas-program.html?_r=1&hp

Scrap secure communities:

2011-12-19T08:04:00.001-08:00

Editorial advocates scrapping of the immigration program dubbed "Secure Communities" which is supposed to target and remove convicted criminals who are undocumented. While a good thought, the program has marginal (if any) success. Not only are fewer than half of those placed in removal proceedings convicted criminals, there are routine instances of US citizens being caught-up in this dragnet.

The article can be found on the LA Times website at:

http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/opinionla/la-ed-secure-20111219,0,4821047.story

Off-shore ship for entrepreneurs?

2011-12-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

An American business man wants to anchor a cruise-ship off the coast of San Francisco to serve as a "base of operations" for foreign entrepreneurs who cannot get visas to work in America. The thought is that those eager to launch start-ups would be ferried to the main-land to conduct business, but reside in international waters aboard the ship.

The article can be found on the Winnipeg Free Press website at:

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/arts-and-life/life/sci_tech/immigration-reform-adrift-us-startup-wants-to-house-foreign-entrepreneurs-offshore-135733943.html

Immigration dragnet catches citizens:

2011-12-14T07:44:00.000-08:00

As the Obama administration continues its aggressive policy of removing undocumented citizens, there is a steady, though low number of American citizens caught up by ICE officials and left to spend days in jail. After an arrest, so-called "immigration detainers" are placed on some people who are flagged as potentially being in the country illegally. Release from jail is not affected until proof of citizenship is shown.

The article can be found on the NY Times website at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/14/us/measures-to-capture-illegal-aliens-nab-citizens.html?_r=2&hp

Opinion analysis: Judulang v. Holder

2011-12-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

UC Davis School of Law Dean Kevin Johnson provides an analysis of the US Supreme Court's recent opinion in Judulang v. Holder where the Court struck down the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) policy of applying different standards to waivers of excludability for lawful permanent residents being deported versus those seeking admission to the US. The Court held that the Board in deciding these cases was being "arbitrary and capricious."

The analysis can be found on the Scotus Blog at:

http://www.scotusblog.com/2011/12/opinion-analysis-judulang-v-holder/

The opinion can be found on the Supreme Court's website at:

http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/11pdf/10-694.pdf

SCOTUS to hear case on AZ immigration law:

2011-12-12T10:45:00.000-08:00

Arizona's get-tough immigration law that has key provisions blocked by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals will be debated before the US Supreme Court. The provisions under attack include the law's requirement that all immigrants must carry proper papers, and the power given to local law enforcement to arrest suspected "illegal immigrants" without warrant.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://nbcpolitics.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/12/12/9389268-high-court-to-look-at-state-immigration-laws

TX conservatives call for reform:

2011-12-08T07:41:00.001-08:00

In a letter to representative Lamar Smith of Texas, the leader of a conservative group implores Congress to institute business-enhancing immigration reform measures. Such requests include raising the numerical cap on skilled-worker visas, and expanding the Federal E-Verify program.

The article can be found on the Texas GOP Vote website at:

http://www.texasgopvote.com/fix-immigration/immigration-legislation/letter-chairman-smith-regarding-sensible-immigration-reform-003606

Anchor baby redefined as offensive:

2011-12-07T09:28:00.000-08:00

Originally, the American Heritage Dictionary's new addition of 'anchor baby' did not include a notation of "offensive" or "disparaging." The editors have since fixed this problem.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/mary-giovagnoli/anchor-baby-definition_b_1132196.html

Conservatives may be willing to give immigration a chance:

2011-12-07T09:08:00.000-08:00

Polls of conservative caucus-goers indicate that enforcement-only, get-tough immigration policies are NOT the hot-button campaign issues that they are made out to be. In fact, many are willing to give immigration reform a chance.

The article can be found on the NPR website at:

http://www.npr.org/blogs/itsallpolitics/2011/12/06/143204081/give-immigration-reform-a-chance-say-nations-most-conservative-voters

Mariachi's to sing for reform:

2011-12-06T08:18:00.000-08:00

On December 12, over 100 mariachi bands will take to the streets of LA to raise awareness about the need for wage and immigration reform. It is estimated that 70% of mariachi bands are undocumented residents.

The article can be found on the Latino News website at:

http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/lifestyle/2011/12/06/mariachis-to-take-los-angeles/

school keeps education dream alive:

2011-12-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

After the Board of Regents for Georgia' higher education system banned undocumented citizen from attending the state's top five universities, including University of Georgia, and Georgia Tech., a group of scholars established a week-end school to in a small way fill a void that had been created.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://schoolsofthought.blogs.cnn.com/2011/12/01/freedom-university/?hpt=hp_bn2

Senator sends demand letter to labor dept:

2011-12-01T16:44:00.000-08:00

Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley sent a demand letter to the Secretary of Labor and the White House to question why under the H-2B program it is likely that no in-state job applicants were aware of hiring for a federal contract to clear forest land. Following the "letter of the law," notice of the job vacancies were given in smaller out-of-state newspapers.

The article can be found on the Oregonian website at:

http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/12/sen_jeff_merkley_demands_refor.html

Partial defense of Gingrich immigration package:

2011-12-01T09:07:00.000-08:00

While not supporting GOP Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich's call for "amnesty" for long-term undocumented residents, this article likes his ideas about creating a temporary work visa to enable immigrants to easily move across the border to work. This would make them "legal" and more importantly (to some) pay taxes so they won't be a "burden" on the American tax payer.

The article can be found on the Forbes website at:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/merrillmatthews/2011/11/30/a-partial-defense-of-newt-gingrichs-immigration-reform/

Perry all about border enforcement:

2011-11-30T10:28:00.000-08:00

When pressed about details for immigration reform on his watch as potential President, GOP candidate Rick Perry simply said "border enforcement." Beyond this, he appears to have no other ideas.

The article can be found on the ABC News website at:

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2011/11/pressed-on-immigration-reform-rick-perry-offers-no-clear-answer/

Follow-up with a dreamer:

2011-11-29T12:01:00.000-08:00

while being an undocumented resident, brought to the US by her mother s a child, kept her from getting financial aid, she found a way to graduate college. "Gov. Brown has done right by the children of immigrants," states Nancy Guarneros, commenting on the fact California version of the DREAM Act was signed into law last month.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://inamerica.blogs.cnn.com/2011/11/25/whatever-happened-to-nancy-guarneros-undocumented-student-dream-act-hopeful/?hpt=hp_bn2

Immigration reform update:

2011-11-29T09:09:00.001-08:00

Weekly update on the bigger "going on" in immigration reform. This update includes the Obama administration filing suit to block Utah's immigration enforcement legislation and House Democrats filing an amicus brief in favor of the suit against Alabama's tough immigration law.

The article can be found on the Right Side News website at:

http://www.rightsidenews.com/2011112815037/us/homeland-security/u-s-legislative-immigration-update-november-21-2011.htm

Encouraging immigration will create jobs:

2011-11-28T14:01:00.001-08:00

Another op ed piece arguing for the creation of an "entrepreneur visa." In contrast to other countries that actively seek innovative immigrants, America routinely kicks out those with entrepreneurial spirit.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/25/opinion/wilkinson-jobs-immigration/index.html?hpt=hp_bn9

Suicide over DREAM Act:

2011-11-28T13:07:00.000-08:00

A heartbreaking story about an undocumented high school student who killed himself over his lack of immigration status. Wanting to attend college and be an engineer one day, this 18 year-old reportedly killed himself because of his bleak future being an undocumented resident. Passage of the DREAM Act would theoretically aide such people. In looking at the comments, how can there be so much hate? Hat tip to Dean Dad from the Confessions of a Community College Dean blog.

The article can be found on the Valley Central website at:

http://www.valleycentral.com/news/story.aspx?id=690993#.TtLPVLKBq0t

Gingrich immigration, continued:

2011-11-26T11:42:00.001-08:00

GOP presidential candidate Newt Gingrich clarified his stance on immigration at a local town hall meeting. While he does contend that a (very) few immigrants who have been in the country for an extended time might qualify for a "certificate of legality" to remain, he expects most undocumented people in America must return to their home countries and apply for legalized immigration.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/25/9026929-gingrich-most-illegal-immigrants-should-leave-reapply-to-become-citizens

Will humane comment bite?

2011-11-23T08:50:00.000-08:00

Will GOP Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich's comment that America's policy on undocumented aliens be "humane" come back and bite him, like it did to Perry earlier? While Gingrich does not support blanket "amnesty," he did suggest that immigration policy does have room for well-established aliens who have raised families and faithfully paid taxes.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/11/22/8964727-will-gingrichs-comments-on-illegal-immigration-come-back-to-haunt-him

A similar story on CNN states that Gingrich is "ready to take the heat" for this stance on immigration:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/23/politics/gingrich-immigration/index.html?hpt=hp_c2

100 reasons Alabama's immigration law is a disaster:

2011-11-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

The 100 reasons that Alabama's immigration law is a disaster range from money lost to families in fear. Hat tip to the immigration law prof.

The article can be found on the Center for American Progress website at:

http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2011/11/alabama_100.html

In-state tuition violates federal law?

2011-11-22T09:05:00.000-08:00

According to one conservative group, the practice of some states to allow "illegal immigrants" to have in-state tuition for state-sponsored universities violates federal law. Their argument hinges on wording of § 1623 of the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996. Under this section, an undocumented alien cannot receive any benefit that any citizen of the United States cannot receive. Therefore, unless in-state tuition is charged to every applicant across the country, the in-state undocumented applicants cannot receive this benefit.

The article can be found on the Heritage Foundation website at:

http://www.heritage.org/research/reports/2011/11/providing-in-state-tuition-for-illegal-aliens-a-violation-of-federal-law

Immigration update:

2011-11-21T13:28:00.000-08:00

Among the things "going on" in immigration news currently are efforts by Republicans law makers to close loop holes in the tax code to allow tax-filers with a Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to receive the Additional Child Tax Credit. ICE officials recently refused to detail immigrants who were protesting Alabama's tough immigration law.

The article can be found on The Right Side News website at:

http://www.rightsidenews.com/2011112114983/us/homeland-security/u-s-legislative-immigration-update-november-21-2011.html

Pinoy allowed to remain:

2011-11-18T09:11:00.000-08:00

A Filipino dental hygienist who came to America as a teenager who is currently in removal proceedings has been allowed to remain in the United States. The review of his case is presumably one of the first instances in a new DHS policy to review immigration court cases and target primarily violent criminals for deportation.

The article can be found on the GMA News website at:

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/238613/pinoy-abroad/pinoy-dental-assistant-in-us-granted-stay-of-deportation

Alabam law reminds us of jim crow:

2011-11-17T13:26:00.001-08:00

An op-ed piece co-authored by the son of Martin Luther King argues that the new anti-immigrant law in Alabama goes back to the time of Jim Crow laws in the deep south. No matter the intent of a law, families should not be victimized or criminalized as a natural consequence.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/17/opinion/trumka-king-civil-rights-alabama/index.html?hpt=hp_bn9

DHS to begin review of cases:

2011-11-17T09:41:00.001-08:00

Starting tomorrow, the Department of Homeland Security will finally begin the review of over 300,000 immigration court cases. As previously announced by the Director, this procedure hopes to expedite the removal of violent criminals, while helping others in removal proceedings to remain in America.

The article can be found on the New York Times website at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/17/us/deportation-cases-of-illegal-immigrants-to-be-reviewed.html?_r=1

Economics is key to Latino vote:

2011-11-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

Sound economic strategies of a candidate will woo the Latino vote. With Latino-owned small businesses the fastest growing component of the sector, smart political strategies aimed at helping businesses grow will win votes.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/noel-a-poyo/candidates-will-win-latin_b_1095590.html

Immigrant-category jobs?

2011-11-11T12:19:00.001-08:00

After Alabama's strict immigration law took effect, the farmers saw a substantial drop-off in immigrant labor to work their farms. With a high unemployment rate, many think these jobs would be snapped up by Americans looking for whatever they could find. Not the case, at all.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45246594/ns/business-us_business/

CA GOP breaks with party over immigration:

2011-11-11T08:19:00.001-08:00

The Lincoln Club of Orange County, California has come up with an immigration reform plan that is counter to the majority of GOP hard-liners who typically only support enforcement-first policies. The Lincoln Club not wanting to alienate the powerful Latino vote has proposed an immigration plan that calls for a guest worker program that would be available to current illegal immigrants.

The article can be found on the OCRegister website at:

http://www.ocregister.com/news/immigration-326441-club-immigrants.html

Where will AZ immigration policy go now?

2011-11-10T09:05:00.000-08:00

With Arizona State Senate President Russell Pearce gone due to a recall election, what direction will the state of Arizona's immigration policy go? Pearce was the architect of the controversial get-tough immigration measure, SB 1070. Currently, key parts of this law have been enjoined by a Federal District Court, and its expected this issue will make the US Supreme Court.

The article can be found on the Fronteras website at:

http://www.fronterasdesk.org/news/2011/nov/09/reform-enforcement-border-tea-party-Arizona/

Where Obama stands in 2012:

2011-11-09T09:04:00.000-08:00

This article attempts in a nutshell-format to define exactly where President Obama stands on the multitude of immigration issues, from comprehensive immigration reform (CIR), the DREAM Act, and enforcement. While deportations are definitely up under his watch and he continues to claim lack of support for CIR, the Justice Department has routinely filed suits against anti-immigrant legislation enacted by the states.

This article can be found on the Latino.com website at:

http://www.latina.com/lifestyle/our-issues/election-2012-president-obama-s-stance-immigration

Oppression is not a state's right:

2011-11-08T09:16:00.001-08:00

Op ed piece in the New York Times compares and contrasts the GOP's support of state immigration-related legislation, while opposing state laws giving the rights for gays to marry. If the US Constitution can only bend one way, which way is it?

The article can be found on the NY Times website at:

http://loyalopposition.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/11/08/oppression-is-not-a-states-right/

Conservatives should embrace immigration expansion:

2011-11-07T13:55:00.000-08:00

Op ed piece that argues conservatives who want to garner votes and stay "true" to the conservative values heralded by Ronald Reagan should actively support an expansion of immigration in America. The author goes onto argue that conservatives should oppose programs such as E-Verify which are not "friendly" to business. Pro-immigration will also help garner the Hispanic vote.

The article can be found on the Fox News website at:

http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/11/07/twenty-five-years-after-reagans-amnesty-bill-conservatives-should-support/

Fine line between enforcement and targeting:

2011-11-03T09:29:00.001-07:00

This interesting article tries to identify the distinction between enforcement of immigration laws and targeting individual persons. While state-sponsored immigration bill such as in Arizona and Alabama have created many headlines because of their "deportation by attrition" results, the Federal government has been doing the same things for many years. The author concludes with a statement that proper enforcement would involve target violation of the law, not immigrants or their families. Too bad workable answers weren't suggested.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/donald-kerwin/crossing-the-line-from-en_b_1072981.html

A woman of influence:

2011-11-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

Indiana lawyer Angela Adams is one of the top immigration attorneys in America, in large part because of her passion for the practice. She uses her position as a prominent immigration attorney to help educate the public. She seeks ways to show people that immigrants have a positive impact on the community and the local economy.

The article can be found on the Indianapolis Business Journal website at:

http://www.ibj.com/2011-woman-of-influence-angela-d-adams/PARAMS/article/30473

Bill seeks to remove country-cap on skilled visas:

2011-11-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

A House Committee has passed a bill that would remove the current per-country quotas for skilled-worker visas. The House Judiciary Committee last week passed the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. Currently the law prohibits any country from having more than seven-percent of employment or family visas.

The article can be found on The Hill website at:

http://thehill.com/blogs/hillicon-valley/technology/190295-committee-approves-bill-to-eliminate-per-country-limits-on-high-skilled-immigrants

The text of the H.R. 3012 can be found on the Thomas website at:

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c112:H.R.3012:

Murky immigration adjudication:

2011-11-01T08:37:00.001-07:00

A new law journal article from Prof. Jill E. Family of Widener School of Law looks at the lack of transparency in the immigration adjudication process, both from the aspect of removal proceedings and from the awarding of immigration benefits. The article, among other points argues that a lack of transparency contributes to extreme case loads in the immigration courts.

The article is entitled Murky Immigration Law and the Challenges Facing Immigration Removal and Benefits Adjudication and can be downloaded on the SSRN website at:

http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=1863983

Justice Department seeks to block SC law:

2011-10-31T16:11:00.000-07:00

Like other state immigration laws before it, the US Justice Department has sought to have the courts block a recently enacted South Carolina immigration-related law. Among the contested provisions is one that mandates law enforcement officers to inquire about residency status upon all lawful stops or arrests.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/45109242/ns/us_news-life/

Bachmann wouldn't help children:

2011-10-31T12:31:00.000-07:00

Asked if she would "help" the children of undocumented citizens in any way, Republican Presidential candidate Michael Bachmann said No. Since their parents came to America without permission, America doesn't owe these children anything, states Bachmann. No DREAM Act legislation under Bachmann's watch!

The story can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/30/michele-bachmann-immigration-citizenship_n_1065981.html

Here is an interview of the student who asked Bachmann the question:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Birth tourism?

2011-10-28T08:40:00.000-07:00

An article about the rise of "birth tourism" in the United States. Several companies advertise the benefits for wealthy foreign mothers to have their babies in the states; benefits such as free high school education and access to Harvard and Yale. While comprising a very small percentage of America's births each year, there is little doubt that they are coming to the United States for the primary purpose of having a child so it will gain automatic citizenship.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://rockcenter.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/10/28/8511587-born-in-the-usa-birth-tourists-get-instant-us-citizenship-for-their-newborns

Here is a video:

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Wrong debate on immigration:

2011-10-27T09:03:00.000-07:00

An article argues that the immigration debate is asking the wrong questions. Quoting a VP from google who states: "to keep my edge I must think like an immigrant" the author writes that immigrants don't take jobs, they create jobs.

The article can be found on the Newsmax website at:http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif

Next jobs will be asian:

2011-10-26T08:36:00.000-07:00

A recent piece on how and why America will no longer be the land of entrepreneurs explains why the next Steve Jobs will be from an Asian country. Largely due immigration policies that encourage foreign-born students education in America's universities to return home, a Western education is creating entrepreneurs for Asia and India. While historically these regions of the world discouraged risk-takers, education in America has made this entrepreneurial spirit much more socially acceptable, thus providing further incentive for the world's brightest to leave America.

The article can be found on the INC. website at:

http://www.inc.com/articles/201110/why-the-next-steve-jobs-will-be-asian.html

Dems looking for contrast issue:

2011-10-25T14:09:00.001-07:00

Democrats on Capitol Hill are looking to push for some form of immigration reform, maybe as early as December. The "word" is that such a push would be to present a "contrast issue" to the Republican's strong stand on border enforcement.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2011/10/24/democrats-consider-new-immigration-reform-push/

Immigration truths:

2011-10-24T12:30:00.001-07:00

The immigration "truths" as told by a community organizer. His spin on the situation is essentially another argument for the text-book definition of comprehensive immigration reform; one that includes: border security, ease of process, amnesty-type provisions to allow the undocumented to pay a fine and remain, etc. His good "start" to the immigration fix is a complicated one!

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/vito-de-la-cruz/immigration-truths_b_1027741.html

You can't find legal workers?

2011-10-22T11:20:00.001-07:00

According to many in the agriculture industry, it has been difficult to find legal laborers for their fields. After the recent passage of Alabama's tough immigration-related bill, many Hispanics have fled the state, leaving farmers with a labor shortage. An expedited agricultural visa might be just the ticket.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44981872/ns/us_news-life/t/few-americans-take-immigrants-jobs-alabama/

First Mexican truck under NAFTA across:

2011-10-22T08:39:00.001-07:00

For the first time under NAFTA, a truck from Mexico crossed the border into the United States. Under the initial plan, trucks hauling freight from Mexico were supposed to have unrestricted access to America by 2000.

The article can be found on the MSNC website at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44995603/ns/business-world_business/

A house gets you a visa:

2011-10-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

Senators Charles Schumer and Mike Lee have proposed legislation that would grant a residence visa to anyone who purchases a house in the United States valued at over $500,000.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://bottomline.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/10/20/8413642-buy-a-home-get-a-us-visa-senators-propose

Review of deportations to start soon:

2011-10-20T09:06:00.000-07:00

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano states a pilot program to "review" immigrants in removal proceedings will begin in two to three weeks. This policy, announced a few months ago, is being used so that the limited resources of ICE and other federal agencies can be efficiently spent on the removal of the most violent of undocumented people.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/19/politics/napolitano-deportation-reviews/index.html?hpt=hp_bn2

Record deportions not enough:

2011-10-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

The Obama administration's record-number of deportations (removals) of undocumented residents is not enough to keep enforcement-proponents happy. Over 400,000 have been placed into removal proceedings, and that effort still doesn't make Mark Krikorian, the head of the Center for Immigration Studies happy.

The article can be found on the Salon.com website at:

http://www.salon.com/2011/10/19/record_number_of_deportations_still_not_enough_for_anti_immigration_zealots/singleton/

Immigration for job growth:

2011-10-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

Yet another article about liberal immigration policies that can lead to job growth in America. The crux of the story is that a more easy visa system would help attract the best and brightest minds to America which would in turn increase hiring.

The article can be found on the Wall Street Journal website at:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203914304576631452123306760.html

Will the Supreme's make deportations inline with exclusions?

2011-10-17T17:33:00.000-07:00

Kevin Johnson, the Dean of the UC Davis School of Law provides a summary and critique of the recently argued case of Judulang v. Holder, where the Court will determine if it is proper to remove a long-time permanent resident who was convicted of voluntary manslaughter in 1989. Under the current state of immigration law, there is a "waiver of excludability for noncitizens in similar circumstances who seek entry to the United States, that is not available to one who already resides in the country.

The analysis can be found on the Scotusblog at:

http://www.scotusblog.com/2011/10/argument-recap-judulang-v-holder-former-section-212c-relief-from-removal-for-lawful-permanent-residents-convicted-of-aggravated-felonies/

A better life:

2011-10-17T13:47:00.000-07:00

A Better Life, a movie now available on DVD paints a realistic face to the heated immigration debate.

The movie review can be found on the USA Today website at:

http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/dvd/story/2011-10-16/better-life-immigration/50796352/1

A full list of the cast, plus industry statistics are available from the Internet Movie Database website at:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1554091/

States must face reality:

2011-10-17T13:33:00.000-07:00

As state legislatures are growing weary of the federal government's ineffective immigration policy and enforcement measures, what a state can and cannot do in regard to enforcement of federal immigration law is somewhat unknown, with one circuit court rejecting Arizona's get-tough law, while another circuit court upholds substantially the same provisions in Alabama. The reality is that enforcement-only measures can only solve part of the problem.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/17/opinion/jacoby-immigration/

CA dream act went too far:

2011-10-16T12:27:00.000-07:00

California DREAM Act goes too far says syndicated columnist Ruben Navarrette. In addition to granting the children of undocumented workers the right to attend state colleges at in-state tuition, these children also now have access to both private and state-based financial aid. Navarrette would draw the line at private foreign aid. My only question about educating these kids is a rhetorical one. So what if they're college-educated? They won't be eligible for employment after graduation. Then what?

The article can be found on the Mercury News website at:

http://www.mercurynews.com/opinion/ci_19118168

Bachmann pledges secure border fence:

2011-10-16T08:28:00.001-07:00

Further rebuking Texas Governor Rick Perry for his "soft" stance on immigration reform, Republican candidate Michele Bachmann pledges to secure every inch of the Mexican border with a "secure double fence." Siting statistics from a conservative immigration think-tanks, Bachmann states that illegal aliens cost America $113 billion a year, with the education of their children having the highest price tag.

The article can be found on the New York Times blog at:

http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/10/15/bachmann-goes-after-perry-on-immigration-pledges-border-fence/

Keep the nobels:

2011-10-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

Opinion piece discusses the need for America to do more to keep the highly-talented scientists educated in American universities in the country after their graduation. Currently, the immigration restrictions/limits placed on student visa holders often require these graduates to return to their native countries after their education is complete. Award winners of the Nobel Prize have largely been American-educated scientists and academic leaders, though this likely will change if immigration policies aren't altered.

The article can be found on the Financial Times website at:

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/83a23bba-f3fe-11e0-b221-00144feab49a.html#axzz1agiXGdNB

Focus on legal immigration:

2011-10-12T09:03:00.001-07:00

One writer argues that attention should be focused on "legal immigration" rather than bickering over what to do with the "illegals." The author argues that in a poor economic climate, DREAM Act and other "amnesty" type efforts is a non-starter. Therefore, attention and resources should be drawn toward attracting job-creating immigrants who are highly-skilled, make America a stopping point for the "best and brightest of the world."

The article can be found on the American Enterprise Institute for Public Policy Research website at:

http://www.aei.org/article/104264

Animosity not new:

2011-10-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

Comprehensive immigration reform is a "hot" topic that is filled with heated debate and even animosity. This feeling is nothing new, there being many instances throughout American history where immigrants were not welcomed in their new country. One recent blog post recounts some of the more disturbing instances.

The article can be found on the My Latino Voice website at:

http://mylatinovoice.com/politics-and-us/24-politics/3081-a-history-of-us-mexico-immigration-practices.html

DOJ seeks court to overturn AL legislation:

2011-10-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

The Department of Justice is seeking the blockage of Alabama's new "get tough" immigration bill in federal appeals court. Opponents of the legislation say that it invites discrimination and is "mean-spirited." Already the affects of the provisions upheld by the district court have been dramatic, causing Hispanics to pull their children from public schools.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/07/justice/alabama-immigration-law/

Alabama State Senator Billy Beasley has filed a bill in the Alabama Senate to repeal this legislation, stating that the law has already caused serious workforce shortages.

The article can be found on the Alabama Live website at:

http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2011/10/state_sen_billy_beasley_files.html

Border not so dangerous:

2011-10-06T12:35:00.001-07:00

A recent op-ed piece in the NY Times points out that Texas Governor Rick Perry is incorrect about the border area near El Paso being dangerous. Like other cities its size, El Paso has its problems associated with violence and drugs, what it truly needs is a stronger economy and jobs. She also criticizes Perry's efforts at strengthening the border security, including the installation of cameras alongside the border fence.

The article can be found on the NY Times website at:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/06/opinion/rick-perry-is-wrong-about-el-paso.html

Asylum for the deaf:

2011-10-05T09:19:00.001-07:00

One lawyer is attempting to push the envelope on the definition of those immigrants qualified to seek asylum under US law. California attorney Hadley Bajramovic has several deaf clients who he is helping apply for asylum. In one case he argues that a deaf person in Mexico suffered repeated persecution, and as such qualifies under one of the asylum categories to remain in the country legally.

The article can be found on the CNN website at:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/10/04/us/california-deaf-asylum-seekers/

School district abuses guest worker program:

2011-09-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

The Labor Department has recently ruled that Prince Georges County has abused the H-1B guest worker program, and as such, thousands of foreign teachers are stranded in the United States in limbo, without work and often without immigration status. Under the guest worker program, an employer is supposed to pay the visa fees; the school district instead reduced the teacher salaries to cover this expense.

The article can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44708445/ns/today-education_nation/

ICE rounds-up criminal immigrants:

2011-09-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

Weeks after the Obama administration announced a focus on the removal of undocumented "criminals," ICE has announced a 50-state operation has nabbed some 3,000 immigrants and placed them in removal proceedings.

The story can be found on the MSNBC website at:

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/44701371/ns/us_news-crime_and_courts/

Immigration reform important to election:

2011-09-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

The issue of immigration reform is definitely alive in the 2012 Presidential Election. With Texas Governor Rick Perry being strongly criticized for his Texas-version of the failed Federal DREAM Act, and his rebuttal consisting of: "you don't have a heart." With Latinos representing a substantial voting block, and immigration being high on their priority list, immigration reform will NOT go away in 2012.

The article can be found on the Huffington Post website at:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/26/immigration-debate-alive-and-well_n_980521.html

GOP debate on immigration:

2011-09-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

In the most recent GOP presidential debate, a fair amount of time was devoted to the immigration issue. Rick Santorum says Texas Governor Rick Perry is "weak on immigration" since he doesn't want to build a fence across the expanse of the Mexico-Texas border. Perry in defending his support for in-state tuition for undocumented students argues that the children of "illegal" immigrants must be educated so they won't later be a drain on America. Ron Paul states: "no free education, no subsidies, no citizenship."

A summary of the debate can be found on the USA Today political website, the immigration debate starts at the 9:45 mark:

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/onpolitics/post/2011/09/gop-debate-fox-news-orlando-/1?csp=hf

Hispanic voters don't follow the same line:

2011-09-22T12:13:00.001-07:00

Hispanic voters across America don't necessarily vote across the same party-line, or even share similar views on immigration issues. For voters in states like California, where the Hispanic population is younger, less established, immigration issues and immigrant-rights are extremely important. Across the country in Florida, where there are substantial number of generational Hispanic voters, these views are not necessarily shared.

The article can be found on the Sun-Sentinel website at:

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/opinion/columnists/sfl-gmcol-hispanics-92211,0,4188878.column

Obama administration policy DOES deport:

2011-09-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

The Obama administration, contrary to popular perceptions based upon its support of 'comprehensive immigration reform' is on track to deport more undocumented people from the US in one term than President Bush did in two. Current administration policies have focused on the deportation of criminals, which seem to be reflected in the numbers, with 196,000 "criminals" being deported under Obama's watch.

The article can be found on the Reuters website at:

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/09/20/us-obama-immigration-idUSTRE78J05720110920

Illegal immigration a strain on America:

2011-09-16T09:51:00.000-07:00

Senator Frank Guinta, is all for legal immigration, but is staunchly against illegal immigration. In his Op Ed piece, he espouses a view that is likely like many Republicans. Being "illegal," the government has not had the opportunity to run background checks to exclude criminals from entry, argues Guinta. As such, Guinta supports the HALT Act, proposed legislation that would prohibit ICE from granting parole to undocumented people who have committed crimes.

The article can be found on the Hampton-NorthHampton Patch website at:

http://hampton-northhampton.patch.com/articles/op-ed-illegal-immigration-causing-strain

Obama says immigration reform means changing the law:

2011-09-15T13:09:00.001-07:00

President Obama recently stated that any real immigration law reform must include an actual change to the current law. His administration's policy stance on 'prioritizing' removal cases can only accomplish so much. If a goal of comprehensive reform is wanted, Congress will have to make the ultimate changes.

The article can be found on the Fox News Latino website at:

http://latino.foxnews.com/latino/politics/2011/09/13/obama-immigration-reform-requires-changing-law/