Since Comprehensive Immigration Reform was not likely to pass, President Obama passed a series of Executive Actions to remedy some of the harm caused by immigration inaction. Originally DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) was published in 2010, which basically said that Kids brought over into United States before their 16th Birthday and before 2007, and graduated from High School or are in school, would not be deported. They would also receive work permits which would enable them to work, get Driver’s Licenses, etc.
In November of 2014, President issued another Executive order granting the same benefit to DAPA (Deferred Action for Parents of Americans). He also extended the DACA to include individuals who came before 2010, and under the age of 31. However that executive action also had other provisions, which both Democrats and Republicans relating to Business Immigration. Most notably H-4 spouses of H-1B holders who has an approved I-140 can apply for work permit. Other Business Immigration visas adjudications would standardize adjudication by Citizenship and Immigration Service memorandum. Please note that these Business Immigration provisions are in place and both Democrats and Republicans agree on these provisions.
State of Texas sued on grounds that DAPA and DACA exceeded the President’s authority. The Supreme was deadlocked 4/4 on the case in June of 2016. The Obama administration filed for another certiorari, but SCOTUS has refused to hear it this coming year when the new Justice is presumably appointed.
The SCOTUS did not give any reason for this refusal. Maybe the SCOTUS thinks that President Obama will not be in office, any Executive Actions he could have taken would be moot. Maybe the Court wants Congress to tackle Comprehensive Immigration Reform. Whatever the case might be, we will be left with people driving without a license or insurance, people falling sick with no health insurance, and people earning without paying taxes. Yes, it makes no sense. This is not a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card), it’s just a work permit so that undocumented aliens can pay their fair share for living in our midst.
For more information contact Banerjee and Associates
