Tag: pathway to citizenship

Biden pushes expanded pathways to citizenship as immigration bill lands in Congress

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The Biden administration formally rolled out its major immigration bill Thursday, introducing legislation that would give 11 million people a path to U.S. citizenship. 

The bill, which will be shepherded by Rep. Linda Sanchez (D-Calif.) and Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), represents President Biden’s chance to deliver major changes to a system where both parties see a need for reform but are sharply divided on how to deliver it.

White House officials called the bill a chance to “reset and restart conversations on immigration reform,” labeling the bill as Biden’s “vision of what it takes to fix the system.” Continue reading.

Phillips Applauds New Permanent Resident Status for Liberian Minnesotans

President Trump signs defense bill which includes a provision to provide pathway to citizenship for Liberians on DED

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Rep. Dean Phillips (MN-03) is celebrating with the members of the Liberian community in Minnesota after President Trump signed the National Defense Department Authorization (NDAA). The defense agreement provides Liberians on Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) with a pathway to citizenship for the first time – the culmination of a year-long effort by Phillips and a core group other lawmakers. Phillips has been working with the Liberian community, his colleagues in Congress and President Trump to first delay the expiration of DED in March and has advocated for a bipartisan permanent fix for the last year.

The yearly defense bill contained the final provision, which was based on legislative efforts led by Phillips, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, and Rep. David Cicilline, Rhode Island Sen. Jack Reed and Minnesota Sen. Tina Smith.

“Our nation is the land of promise and opportunity,” said Phillips. “If you are here legally, play by the rules, and contribute to your community, you should have nothing to fear – and our Liberian neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family are finally breathing a sigh of relief. Over many months, I have worked together with Minnesota’s extraordinary Liberian community to elevate their stories and legislate a permanent fix for DED. I’m overjoyed and celebrating alongside them today and am thankful to my colleagues Rep. David Cicilline, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, Sen. Tina Smith, and Sen. Jack Reed for finding a way to get this done.” Continue reading “Phillips Applauds New Permanent Resident Status for Liberian Minnesotans”