I support the Biden’s idea of granting parole to spouses.
It's important for immigration policies to uphold the law while also showing compassion, towards immigrants.
During an event at the White House Javier Quiroz Castro, a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) had the opportunity to meet President Biden.
President Bidens recent decision to allow law abiding noncitizen spouses of U.S. Citizens with ties to the country to seek immigration parole is a legally sound move that should be fully endorsed.
Parole is an authority exercised by immigration officials to allow noncitizens to stay in the U.S. Temporarily under supervision while they pursue permanent immigration status. This new policy would offer relief on a basis to noncitizens who are legally married to a U.S. Citizen as of June 17 have been residing in the U.S. For at least a decade and pass a criminal background check.
The executive branch has been utilizing parole powers for over 100 years. These powers have been incorporated into our laws since the passage of the Immigration and Nationality Act in 1952. According to this legislation anyone "seeking admission into the United States" is eligible, for parole.
For a time only those who arrived in the United States at designated points of entry, like border crossings or airports were considered. However, in 1996 Congress changed the immigration laws to include anyone " in the United States without admission" as a potential candidate for parole. When individuals request parole while inside the U.S. it is referred to as "parole in place."
This practice of granting parole to noncitizens has been a practice across different administrations spanning from Bill Clinton to Joe Biden. During President Barack Obamas term the Department of Homeland Security introduced a received policy that allowed immediate family members of U.S. Service members and veterans to be eligible for parole in place. In 2019 there were concerns about rescinding this policy leading legislators to call for its review by the executive branch. Subsequently in 2020 Congress passed a law explicitly confirming the executive branch’s authority for granting parole in place and showing support, for families seeking parole.
Bidens approach mirrors the parole, in place policy and is crafted to adhere to the requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act. For instance, under the law parole can only be granted "temporarily". On a case-by-case basis." Therefore, this policy would allow parole extensions for one year at a time. It does not automatically guarantee parole; instead, it enables eligible individuals to apply for consideration by the Department of Homeland Security on a basis.
Providing relief in these situations aligns with Congresss intent, in permitting parole. Parole is authorized for " humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit " both of which are met by this policy. The estimated million eligible individuals, who have lived in the U.S. For an average of 23 years and many have children who're U.S. Citizens play integral roles in our communities as friends, coworkers, members of congregations and caregivers. Despite their contributions they live under fear of deportation and family separation. Granting them parole would help alleviate the stress and worry stemming from the threat of removal.
It would enable them to seek permission to work legally bringing stability to their lives their families and the companies that hire them. This would also contribute further to the $13.5 billion they already contribute to the economy. Additionally, the policy aims to support organized migration while enhancing security measures by transitioning individuals into established immigration pathways.
Some critics have labeled this policy as an amnesty program. However, this is a misconception. The policy provides relief on a case, by case basis. While being granted parole may facilitate some individuals in adjusting their immigration status if they meet the residence criteria this aligns with Congresss intentions. Congress has mandated that individuals granted parole following scrutiny should have the opportunity to apply for permanent resident status from within the U.S. rather than having to leave the country and be separated from their American family members for extended periods while awaiting reentry approval. Assisting members of our communities in securing residency rights, alongside their spouses and children is an additional advantage of this policy.
I have dedicated, over 40 years to working on our countrys immigration policy. Serving as the past president of the Federal Bar Association, New Jersey chapter and as a practicing immigration attorney. who successfully defended applicants for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) policy against attempts deny it. Through these experiences I have strengthened my belief that our immigration policies should uphold the rule of law while showing compassion towards immigrants and recognizing their contributions to their families, communities and our nation. Bidens new parole policy aligns, with these principles.
I find this policy commendable and lawful. I am pleased to lend my support to it.
