Dear Readers:
It’s quiet in Washington these days. Congress is in its five week August recess and not a lot seems to be happening. But don’t let the lack of news fool you. We’re in a very critical period that could determine the future of immigration reform. The Senate is done with its work for a while, but on the House side, several bills are in the works and there will be surprises for those who think that Republicans are incapable of crossing certain lines (hint: there will be a broad plan for legalization).
Both anti-immigrant and pro-immigrant advocates are planning on putting a full-court press on members of the House over the next few weeks. Anti-immigrant groups have traditionally been better organized and vocal, but the last year has seen a major shift as pro-immigration groups have started to make major headway. We’ll know which side won August when members of Congress return after Labor Day.
*****
Aside from immigration reform legislation being considered in Congress, the other big immigration news from the last few weeks is the complete shift in fortune for same sex spouses. The Defense of Marriage Act has prevented USCIS from granting immigration benefits to same sex married couples since it was passed in 1996. But the Supreme Court’s overturning of the law immediately allowed USCIS to confer immigration benefits because immigration statutes and regulations don’t refer to gender. So the immigration agency started approving green card applications almost immediately. And they have now announced that non-immigrant spouse visas may also be granted.
*****
Another important piece of news is the unexpected advancement of the Family 2A green card category for spouses of permanent residents. Until the end of August, couples can file adjustment applications and get to remain legally in the US while work authorized rather than facing years of separation as has been the case for many. That ould very well end in a month so people affected by the advancement need to move quickly.
*****
Readers are reminded that they are welcome to contact my law office if they would like to schedule a telephone or in person consultation with me or one of my colleagues. If you are interested, please call my office at 901-682-6455.
Regards,
Greg Siskind
Disclaimer: This newsletter is provided as a public service and not intended to establish an attorney client relationship. Any reliance on information contained herein is taken at your own risk.