The Senate Judiciary Committee finished its mark-up and approved the new immigration bill, S.744, last night by a vote of 13-5.
What is next? The bill now moves to the Senate floor for debate and voting. We expect the Senate to start taking action on the bill in early June. After that, the immigration bill will have to make its way through the House of Representatives.
What can you do? Urge your senators to support a bipartisan immigration reform bill. Make calls, write letters, send e-mails, etc. You can find contact information for your Senator HERE.
Check back with us for updates.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Monday, May 20, 2013
DACA Statistics - May 17, 2013
USCIS published an update on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals statistics. The data covers applications filed between August 15, 2012 and April 30, 2013. Out of 497,960 DACA requests that were accepted for processing, about 291,859 were approved. Over 200,000 are still waiting for a decision.
View the latest statistics here:
May 17, 2013 Statistics on DACA
View the latest statistics here:
May 17, 2013 Statistics on DACA
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Markup Process for Comprehensive Immigration Reform begins May 9th
On Thursday, May 9, the Senate Judiciary Committee will begin markup of the new immigration bill. Over 300 amendments have been offered for the new immigration law and those will be reviewed during the markup process. Additional amendments will be offered.
Kudos to Senator Leahy for making the process transparent - all the amendments have been posted online and live webcast of the hearings is being broadcast. You can watch what happens here.
Kudos to Senator Leahy for making the process transparent - all the amendments have been posted online and live webcast of the hearings is being broadcast. You can watch what happens here.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Can I still apply for DACA?
I often get a question asking when the application date for DACA expires. The answer is that there is no deadline to file for DACA (at least not at this time). Young people eligible for deferred action can still apply for it as well as for employment authorization card (work permit) which is a part of the application. In fact, some people are still becoming eligible for DACA every day - for example, one of the requirements is that you are at least 15 years of age to apply and some young people may just now be turning 15 (happy birthday, if that is you!).
Click here to see if you meet the basic qualifications for DACA.
The really big question though is "Should I apply for DACA?" There is no "yes" or "no" answer to this question. First of all, there are certain things that will disqualify you from applying. But even if you do qualify on paper, the grant of deferred action is discretionary. If you apply but the USCIS decides not to grant your DACA, you could be put into removal proceedings. You should only apply for DACA after consulting with an immigration attorney who can advise you.
Another thing of interest for those who receive DACA is the new immigration bill proposal which offers special benefits for DACA recipients, such as getting their green cards faster. However, keep in mind - this is only a proposal, meaning it could change or not pass at all.
E-mail us your questions.
Click here to see if you meet the basic qualifications for DACA.
The really big question though is "Should I apply for DACA?" There is no "yes" or "no" answer to this question. First of all, there are certain things that will disqualify you from applying. But even if you do qualify on paper, the grant of deferred action is discretionary. If you apply but the USCIS decides not to grant your DACA, you could be put into removal proceedings. You should only apply for DACA after consulting with an immigration attorney who can advise you.
Another thing of interest for those who receive DACA is the new immigration bill proposal which offers special benefits for DACA recipients, such as getting their green cards faster. However, keep in mind - this is only a proposal, meaning it could change or not pass at all.
E-mail us your questions.
New I-9 Must Be Used Starting Today, May 7th
As of today, employers are required to use new form I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification for new hires and reverifications. The revision date of the new I-9 form is 03/08/2013. Employers need to make certain to use the new form to avoid penalties - the date can be located in the lower left corner of the form.
Among other requirements of the new I-9, employers should be aware that employees must receive the full set of instructions when completing the I-9. That includes instructions for both the employee and employer portions.
Where can I find the new I-9 form?
USCIS: I-9 Central
What are the penalties for I-9 form violations?
USCIS: Penalties
Among other requirements of the new I-9, employers should be aware that employees must receive the full set of instructions when completing the I-9. That includes instructions for both the employee and employer portions.
Where can I find the new I-9 form?USCIS: I-9 Central
What are the penalties for I-9 form violations?
USCIS: Penalties
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
May 1, 2013 - Update on the New Immigration Law
There is not much update to report yet. The new immigration bill was introduced on April 16, 2013 and it was referred to Senate Judiciary Committee the same date where it is still lingering. Other events and issues, such as Boston Marathon bombing and gun legislation, have partially overshadowed the immigration debate but it seems to be gaining speed again if the recent news buzz is any indication.
We will keep you updated through our blog on any changes. Check with us often.
We will keep you updated through our blog on any changes. Check with us often.
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