House Moves Immigration Reform in Budget Reconciliation, Potentially Transforming the Lives of Millions

WASHINGTON—Today the U.S. House of Representatives voted to include immigration provisions and relief in the budget reconciliation package that will now go before the U.S. Senate.

The provisions include protection from deportation and access to work and travel permits for millions of undocumented immigrants who have lived in the United States for at least 10 years. The bill also includes critical improvements to our immigration system that will reduce years-long delays for immigrant families and workers.

The following statement is from Jorge Loweree, policy director at the American Immigration Council:

“While imperfect, the immigration provisions included in the House’s budget reconciliation package could transform the lives of millions of immigrants and families across the country. If passed by the Senate, many of our friends and neighbors will finally be able to live and work in the United States without the constant threat of separation from their loved ones.

“The House bill also includes critical improvements to our immigration system to help individuals and employers who have been stuck in limbo for far too long finally obtain the security of permanent status in the United States.

“We urge the Senate to quickly debate and enact these important measures, and we look forward to working with the Biden administration to make sure they are a success. We will also keep fighting for a more permanent form of relief for those who have been waiting for too long.”

The American Immigration Council has a range of research and other resources on immigration reform, including experts available to speak on the use of parole in immigration, legalization through “Registry,” the Dream Act, documented Dreamers, legalization through 245(i), and the Farm Workforce Modernization Act of 2021.

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For more information, contact:

Maria Frausto at the American Immigration Council, [email protected] or 202-507-7526.