Positive State Action in Immigration
Kyle Huffman • August 3, 2023
In recent months, a great deal of the public conversation and news coverage around immigration has been broadly negative. Florida, in particular, has been dominating the immigration news cycle with the passage and implementation of SB 1718, which, among other things, enhanced the power of state law enforcement officers to enforce federal immigration laws.
While much of the focus has been on negative developments, other states have been taking great strides towards improving the immigration system. It is important to highlight these initiatives.
Of note, two states have recently made efforts to increase access to education for immigrant residents. One of these states is Minnesota, which has introduced HF 2073. The bill is currently in the legislative process, but if passed, it will provide additional funding to Minnesota State colleges and Universities, as well modifying existing grant programs. These changes include greater tuition assistance for low-income families, regardless of immigration status, which will enable tuition assistance for many who previously could not access these benefits due to immigration status. Similarly, the Utah State House passed HB 102, a bill that extends the application of in-state tuition rates at Utah universities for refugees, asylees, and humanitarian parolees. These changes stand to greatly reduce the tuition prices for these groups in higher education, allowing these individuals to enhance their own education as well as gain knowledge and skills for use in the workforce.
In addition to increasing access to higher education, several states are looking to immigration reform to address gaps in the labor market. For example, Maryland has removed a statewide requirement for permanent residency in order to obtain licensure, allowing qualified non-immigrant residents to practice medicine and ultimately, help alleviate the workforce shortage in the medical care field. Similarly, Tennessee passed SB 1451, which facilitates the process of acquiring U.S. medical licenses for professionals who were educated and trained in other countries and under different systems. Arizona, meanwhile, has passed SB 1563, which creates a new committee to study the unnecessary barriers to entry into the workforce facing new Americans, with the goal of facilitating entry into the workforce and ultimately, strong contributions to the national economy.
In the absence of comprehensive, sweeping immigration reform at the federal level, we are seeing an increased trend of states taking action regarding this field of law which has traditionally been dominated by federal policy and enforcement. We will continue to monitor changes on a state-by-state basis at the forefront of immigration reform.
If you have any questions about what this means for you, please schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
We look forward to working with you.
This blog is not intended to be legal advice and nothing here should be construed as establishing an attorney client relationship. Please schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney before acting on any information read here.
Under the new regulation, if a person filed or files Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal after October 1, 2024, and the application remains pending with USCIS for 365 days, the applicant must pay an Annual Asylum Fee (AAF) on the one-year anniversary of his or her filing date.
It’s no secret that the U.S. immigration system has faced increased scrutiny and change in recent months. From evolving policies to headlines filled with uncertainty, it’s understandable that many individuals are left wondering: Is this still the right time to pursue a future in the United States? The answer is yes—and here’s why. Despite the shifting political landscape, the core structure of U.S. immigration law remains firmly in place. While the process may appear more complex or demanding than it once was, the legal pathways to live, work, and thrive in the United States are still open and accessible to those who take the proper steps. What often gets lost in the conversation is that the United States remains a country built on innovation, creativity, and resilience. It continues to attract global talent, entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals from all walks of life. Whether you are launching a business, advancing your career, or seeking a better life for your family, the United States offers unparalleled opportunities to those who are prepared and determined. Much of what makes the United States a global economic and technological leader today is the direct result of contributions made by immigrants. Nearly half of the current Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children. Immigrant entrepreneurs have long been an essential part of America’s economic success story. Some of the largest and most recognizable American companies were founded by immigrants or the children of immigrants. This includes household names such as Apple and Costco. Moderna, the pharmaceutical company and vaccine producer, was founded by a Canadian-born stem cell biologist, Derrick J. Rossi, whose parents themselves emigrated from Malta. These success stories are not outliers; they are part of a broader pattern that reflects the drive, innovation, and resilience that immigrants bring to the country. The United States also offers one of the most dynamic and diverse economies in the world. It is a place where hard work, fresh ideas, and entrepreneurial vision are rewarded. For creative professionals, business leaders, and investors, the United States provides a unique platform to grow, connect, and gain global influence. Its competitive marketplace, access to capital, and culture of innovation create unmatched opportunities for those ready to seize them. While the immigration process requires careful planning, that process is far from impossible. Indeed, having strong legal guidance is one of the most effective advantages an applicant can possess. Immigration law is complex, and each case must be evaluated individually. A clear, strategic plan tailored to your background and goals can significantly improve your chances of success. What may feel like a hurdle at first glance is often navigable with solid preparation and documentation. At our immigration law firm, we have had the privilege of assisting individuals from all over the world as they navigate these complexities. Time and again, we have witnessed how determination, careful preparation, and experienced legal counsel can turn uncertainty into opportunity and help transform a vision for the future into reality. If you have been uncertain about whether to move forward, let this be your sign to take the next step. The United States is still a land of possibilities. If you are ready to take that step, now is the time to act. Let us build your path forward together.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals from Honduras, Nicaragua, Nepal, Haiti, and Cameroon. These longstanding protections are set to expire, putting many individuals at risk of deportation.
