Immigration reform is a popular but hotly debated topic among lawmakers, private citizens and political groups throughout the United States. While many realize the need for comprehensive reforms for current immigration laws, opinions vary drastically on how best to reform these laws, as well as appropriate actions for the large number of illegal immigrants currently in the U.S. Because of these vast differences, immigration reform has not progressed in recent years, but it is important to understand the current immigration situation and the major issues at stake concerning immigration law reform.
One major area of discussion in regards to immigration reform concerns the status of illegal immigrants currently residing in America. Lawmakers, lobbyists and human rights organizations all differ on how best to handle the estimated 11 million immigrants and their families living in the U.S. illegally. While some groups support allowing illegals to remain here under a modified path to citizenship, others insist that illegal immigrants should be deported back to their home countries to begin a legal immigration process.
Another complicating factor in immigration reform is the decision of how to handle families of illegal immigrants currently in the U.S. Many illegal immigrants in the U.S. bring with them young children who often quickly assimilate into American life but without benefits such as federal assistance or access to higher education. Because of their immigration status, the children of illegal immigrants face the constant threat of deportation to countries they are not familiar with, often with no other relatives there for support. Many illegal immigrants marry U.S. citizens and even have U.S. citizen children, who legally cannot be deported from the U.S.
A major piece of legislation being debated among Congressional members is The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act. This federal bill proposes offering immigration relief to children of immigrants negatively impacted by their illegal status. The DREAM Act would grant access to federal financial aid and legal residency to a large percentage of undocumented children and young adults who currently face legal and economic roadblocks in attaining these goals. Providing these disadvantaged youths access to federal assistance and legal residency increases their opportunity to contribute to our society and economy and improves their future generations as well.
Regardless of the differing opinions regarding immigration and immigration reform, immigrants currently in the United States still need help navigating the complexities of immigration law. Often, legal remedies are available. Christiansen Law Firm specializes in family immigration law, citizenship and naturalization processes, deportation representation, and appeals during the immigration process. The attorneys at Christiansen Law Firm provide clients with personal service and effective legal solutions to a host of immigration law needs. Contact Christiansen Law Firm in the greater Houston or San Antonio area for more assistance or for a free consultation.