This September, Senate Democrats are attempting to create a reconciliation bill. These bills are normally related to the federal budget, and they require only a simple majority to pass. This means that if 51% or more vote in favor of the bill, it can go through.
Putting Reforms into the Bill
The Democrats have used this as an opportunity to place various social programs into the bill, including immigration reforms. The Senate Democrats tried including changes that could fast-track certain immigrants toward citizenship. This would affect Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients, those with Temporary Protected Status, farmworkers, and other essential workers.
Because this bill is ostensibly related to the budget, those adding reforms must show how they will impact the deficit, GDP, and so on. Additional spending for the reforms could increase the national deficit by $139 billion, putting the country further into debt. However, the proposal argues that by giving more people access to citizenship, $150 billion would be added to the economy each year. It also projects that the country’s gross domestic product could increase by $1.5 trillion in ten years.
Reforms Shot Down
Elizabeth MacDonough, the current Senate parliamentarian, rejected the addition of these reforms to the bill. According to her, immigration concerns are inappropriate for a bill meant to be budget-related. "The reasons that people risk their lives to come to this country – to escape religious and political persecution, famine, war, unspeakable violence, and lack of opportunity in their home countries – cannot be measured in federal dollars," she said.
Continuing the Fight
Under the current administration, the Democrats are pinpointedly focused on reforming immigration and undoing many of the prior President’s policies. Biden has already introduced many changes that are halting deportations and allowing many to gain citizenship.
The Democrats who have proposed the current reforms appear committed to making them happen. "We will continue fighting to pursue the best path forward to [immigrants] them the ability to obtain lawful status," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin agreed, saying, "We are deeply disappointed in the Parliamentarian's decision, but the fight for immigration reform will continue.”
If you are having trouble with immigration issues, reach out to us for help. With experience, we can work hard to help keep you in the States. Our number is (888) 867-5191, and you can contact us online.