Labor Day falls on the first Monday of September, which is September 2nd this year. The national holiday was created to honor the achievements and contributions of American workers. It symbolizes the end of summer and is celebrated with barbeques, shopping sales, picnics, and sporting events. Enjoy the day off!
REPUBLICAN NATIONAL COMMITTEE PROPOSAL
In mid-August, the Republican National Committee (RNC) proposed for Congress to pass immigration reform. However, the RNC’s version of immigration reform focuses on renewable work permits and does not offer a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants—a key piece of the Democrats’ version of the bill. The Senate’s bipartisan bill that was drafted by the “Gang of Eight” also included a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants currently in the U.S. The RNC’s proposal strongly highlights the views of many Republicans that no undocumented immigrants should be rewarded for entering the country illegally, regardless of the situation or circumstance and what they’ve contributed to the U.S. Despite this, Republicans in the House of Representatives havediscussed legislation that would help DREAMers (those who were brought illegally to the U.S. as children) gain legal status.
HOPEFUL FOR IMMIGRATION REFORM
While Congress was on recess for the month of August, pro-immigration reform groups did not rest and continued to press Congress to support comprehensive immigration reform. During the August break, and despite the RNC’s proposal ignoring a path to citizenship, several Republican representatives from states including Florida, Washington, and Illinois came forward in support of strong immigration reform including a path to citizenship. When Congress resumes this month, many are hopeful that pro-immigration reform will speak louder than those opposing change.
SEPTEMBER VISA UPDATE
For the second month in a row, there are no backlogs for spouses and children of permanent residents who are applying for visas. Come October, a wait could be back in place so now is the time to apply! Please contact the office for more information about applying for the family 2A visa.
As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact the office!