The immigration bill I would submit if I were in Congress

 

The Fair and Secure Immigration Reform Act (FSIRA)

Section 1. Short Title

This Act may be cited as the “Fair and Secure Immigration Reform Act” or FSIRA.

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Section 2. Findings and Purpose

1. Findings:
   1.1. The United States is a nation built on the contributions of immigrants who uphold its laws, embrace its language and customs, and positively contribute to the economy.
   1.2. Fair but stringent requirements for lawful entry and permanent residence help safeguard national security and protect the integrity of the immigration system.
   1.3. Preventing the misuse of marriage as a pathway to citizenship, addressing concerns about entry for pregnant individuals, and clarifying the status of asylum seekers are necessary for maintaining immigration integrity.

2. Purpose:
   2.1. To establish a clear and stringent set of requirements for obtaining lawful permanent residency (Green Cards).
   2.2. To provide certain pathways for expedited citizenship for those willing to serve in the U.S. military or fill critical-need positions.
   2.3. To ensure that prospective immigrants demonstrate commitment to the nation through adherence to U.S. laws, English language proficiency, understanding of U.S. history, and economic self-sufficiency.
   2.4. To eliminate automatic Green Card eligibility based on marriage alone, setting a minimum duration of marriage before an applicant may qualify.
   2.5. To restrict entry for individuals who are pregnant until after they have given birth.
   2.6. To ensure that asylum seekers are granted entry only through an approved application process and to clarify their status once conditions in their home country have changed.

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Section 3. Definitions

For purposes of this Act:

1. Immigrant: Any foreign national seeking lawful permanent residency or citizenship in the United States.
2. Major Crime: Any offense classified as a felony under federal or relevant state law, or an equivalent under the laws of another country if it would be considered a felony in the United States.
3. Minor Crime: Any offense not classified as a felony, excluding infractions.
4. Green Card: The commonly used term for lawful permanent resident status in the United States.
5. Fast-Tracked Citizenship: An expedited process to obtain citizenship more quickly than the standard waiting periods, subject to meeting specific requirements.
6. Critical-Need Fields: Occupations or specialties designated by the Department of Labor or another relevant federal agency as essential to national interests or having a demonstrable labor shortage.
7. Valid Marriage for Immigration Purposes: A marriage recognized under U.S. law that has existed for no less than two (2) years before the non-citizen spouse may apply for or obtain lawful permanent resident status under this Act.
8. Pregnant Individual: Any person who has been medically verified to be pregnant at the time of seeking entry into the United States.
9. Asylum Seeker: A foreign national who seeks protection from persecution or danger in their home country, in accordance with U.S. asylum laws and international obligations.

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Section 4. Requirements for Lawful Permanent Residency (Green Card)

1. Criminal Record Standard:
   1.1. An applicant must not have committed any major crimes (felonies) at any time.
   1.2. An applicant must have no minor crimes (misdemeanors) in the ten (10) years prior to filing for a Green Card.

2. English Language Proficiency:
   2.1. All applicants must demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak English at a level sufficient for everyday communication and integration into U.S. society.

3. Financial Self-Sufficiency:
   3.1. Applicants must show proof of sufficient funds to cover personal living expenses and must provide evidence of a job offer in the United States prior to entry.
   3.2. Acceptable proof includes bank statements, official job offer letters, or other documentation accepted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

4. US History and Civics Knowledge:
   4.1. Before obtaining permanent residency, applicants must pass a standard U.S. history and civics examination administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

5. Marriage-Based Green Card Restrictions:
   5.1. No individual shall automatically qualify for a Green Card solely by virtue of being married to a U.S. citizen.
   5.2. A foreign spouse may become eligible for a Green Card only if the couple has been legally married for a minimum of two (2) consecutive years prior to the filing of any Green Card application.
   5.3. If at any time after the two-year period and before the foreign spouse obtains citizenship, the marriage is legally terminated by divorce or annulment, the non-citizen spouse’s lawful permanent residency shall be revoked, and removal proceedings shall commence pursuant to Section 8.

6. Pregnancy-Related Entry Restrictions:
   6.1. A pregnant individual shall not be permitted entry into the United States until after the birth of the child.
   6.2. The DHS shall establish procedures for verifying pregnancy status where there is reason to believe an individual is pregnant.

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Section 5. Fast-Tracked Citizenship

1. Military Service:
   1.1. Any eligible Green Card holder who volunteers for and serves honorably in a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces for a minimum of four (4) years shall be eligible to apply for citizenship upon completion of service, subject to additional requirements under this Act and the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

2. Critical-Need Fields:
   2.1. The Secretary of Labor, in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security, shall designate a list of occupations or specialties deemed critical-need fields.
   2.2. Green Card holders employed full-time in a critical-need field for at least three (3) years may be eligible to apply for citizenship on an expedited basis, provided they meet all other criteria in this Act.

3. Additional Requirements:
   3.1. Fast-tracked applicants must still pass a rigorous background check, maintain clean criminal records during the entire period of residence, and pass all language and civics requirements.

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Section 6. Standard Waiting Period for Citizenship

1. Minimum Ten-Year Residency:
   1.1. Except as otherwise provided in Section 5 of this Act, Green Card holders shall wait at least ten (10) years from the date of obtaining lawful permanent residency before applying for U.S. citizenship.
   1.2. During this period, the individual must remain in continuous residence in the United States and comply with all federal, state, and local laws.

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Section 7. Asylum Seekers

1. Pre-Approval Requirement:
   1.1. Any individual seeking asylum must submit an application from outside the United States. Entry is not permitted until such time as the Department of Homeland Security or an immigration court has approved the asylum application.

2. Temporary Protection:
   2.1. Once admitted under an approved asylum status, the individual is authorized to remain in the United States only until the conditions causing them peril in their home country have been resolved or significantly improved, as determined by the Secretary of State in consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security.
   2.2. Within thirty (30) days of a formal determination that danger in the asylee’s home country has ended, the asylee must depart the United States unless the asylee has applied for and been granted a Green Card under Section 4 of this Act.

3. Transition to Permanent Residency:
   3.1. Any asylee who wishes to remain in the United States beyond the end of their authorized protection period must meet all the requirements for lawful permanent residency, including the criminal record standard, English proficiency, and financial self-sufficiency.

4. Enforcement:
   4.1. Failure to depart within thirty (30) days after a formal determination that the danger has ended shall subject the individual to removal proceedings under Section 8.

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Section 8. Removal Prior to Citizenship

1. Grounds for Removal:
   1.1. Any non-citizen, including those holding a Green Card, may be subject to removal if they commit any criminal offense before they have been granted full U.S. citizenship.
   1.2. If a Green Card was obtained through marriage and that marriage is dissolved prior to the grant of citizenship, the non-citizen shall be subject to removal unless they qualify for another legal status independently.
   1.3. The Department of Homeland Security shall initiate removal proceedings upon conviction for a crime that demonstrates moral turpitude, or any crime for which incarceration is deemed warranted under federal or state guidelines.

2. Due Process:
   2.1. Individuals subject to removal under this Section shall have the right to a hearing before an immigration judge, as provided by existing federal law.

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Section 9. Enforcement

1. Enforcement Authority:
   1.1. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), shall implement and enforce the provisions of this Act.

2. Penalties for Fraud or Misrepresentation:
   2.1. Any applicant found to have willfully misrepresented or concealed material facts in their immigration applications or interviews shall be permanently barred from obtaining any immigration benefit, subject to waivers or appeals as provided by law.

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Section 10. Effective Date

1. Implementation Period:
   1.1. This Act shall take effect one hundred eighty (180) days after the date of its enactment.
   1.2. The Secretary of Homeland Security shall issue any necessary regulations to implement this Act prior to the effective date.

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Section 11. Severability

1. Invalidation of Specific Provisions:
   1.1. If any provision of this Act, or its application to any person or circumstance, is held invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Act and its application to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected.

The Great Wall of Debate: Unpacking the Costs of Building the Southern Border Wall

 

Introduction: Breaking Down Walls and Myths

Welcome, dear readers, to another enlightening and, dare I say, entertaining exploration into the world of politics and economics. Today, we're tackling a topic that has been the subject of heated debates, endless political rhetoric, and, quite frankly, some eyebrow-raising budgets—the cost of building a wall at the southern border of the United States. Now, before you envision me donning a hard hat and wielding a calculator, let’s break down this colossal subject into bite-sized, friendly, and humorous chunks.

Section 1: The Wall—Not Just Another Brick in the Border

When we talk about the southern border wall, we're not discussing your garden-variety picket fence. No sir! This is a grand, ambitious project, envisioned to stretch across the vast and varied terrain of the US-Mexico border. But alas, just like building a Lego masterpiece, it comes with a hefty price tag.

The cost estimations for this border wall vary as much as opinions on pineapple on pizza. However, according to some reports, the initial estimates for constructing the wall range from $12 billion to a staggering $70 billion. Yes, you read that right! And that doesn’t even include the maintenance costs, which some say could add billions more over the years.

With such figures, it’s no wonder this wall has become a metaphorical battleground for political discussions. But before we dive deeper into the abyss of numbers, let’s take a light-hearted detour to understand what goes into this massive budget.

Section 2: The Price Tag—Why So High?

Why does the cost of building a wall come with such an eye-watering price? Well, it’s not just about stacking bricks and calling it a day. The construction of a border wall involves a myriad of expenses.

Firstly, there's the matter of materials. We're not talking about building with spare parts from the local hardware store. The materials need to withstand harsh weather, attempts at breaching, and, of course, the sands of time. Then there’s the labor cost. Skilled workers, engineers, and security personnel all have their roles to play in this grand production.

But wait, there’s more! The terrain itself poses challenges. From mountainous regions to desert expanses, each section of the border offers its unique set of obstacles that need creative solutions. And guess what? Creative solutions often come with creative pricing!

Section 3: Maintenance—The Gift That Keeps on Taking

Once the wall is up, does that mean the spending stops? Not quite. Maintaining a structure of this magnitude is no small feat. Think about it like owning a classic car—it might look great, but it requires constant upkeep.

The wall would need regular repairs, surveillance systems, and personnel to monitor its integrity. All these elements contribute to ongoing maintenance costs that can add up over time. Some estimates suggest these could range into the billions over the years—a price tag that doesn’t exactly scream “one-time investment.”

Section 4: Economic Impact—More Than Just Dollars and Cents

Now, let's pivot to the economic implications. Building the wall doesn’t just affect the federal budget; it has ripple effects across different sectors of the economy.

For instance, the construction phase could boost local economies by creating jobs and increasing demand for materials. However, this is a double-edged sword. The funds used for the wall could potentially be allocated to other areas like education, healthcare, or infrastructure, which might have more widespread economic benefits.

Moreover, the wall could impact trade relations with Mexico, a key trading partner. Altering the dynamics at the border might lead to changes in trade policies, tariffs, and economic partnerships. So, while the wall itself stands still, its economic ramifications are anything but stationary.

Section 5: Political Perspectives—A Wall of Opinions

As if the economics weren’t complicated enough, the border wall is also a hotbed of political debate. For some, it’s a symbol of national security and sovereignty. For others, it’s a costly and ineffective measure that diverts attention from more pressing issues.

Politicians on both sides of the aisle have used the wall as a rallying cry, often polarizing public opinion. It's fascinating to see how a physical structure can become such a powerful symbol in the world of politics. And while opinions are as varied as the border's landscape, the discussion itself is a vital part of the democratic process.

Section 6: Environmental Concerns—Nature’s Perspective

Beyond the human and economic elements, there's another stakeholder to consider—Mother Nature. The construction of a border wall has significant environmental implications that cannot be overlooked.

The wall could disrupt natural habitats, affecting wildlife migration patterns and ecosystems along the border. Moreover, the environmental cost of producing and transporting materials adds another layer to the already complex budget. Balancing security needs with environmental preservation is a challenge that requires careful consideration and innovative solutions.

Section 7: Technological Alternatives—Beyond Bricks and Mortar

In the age of technology, some argue that there are more effective and less costly alternatives to a physical border wall. From drones and surveillance systems to advanced detection technologies, the options are plentiful.

These technological solutions offer flexibility and adaptability that a static structure simply cannot. They can be deployed to monitor vast areas, adapt to new threats, and potentially offer a more cost-effective approach to border security. Plus, they can be updated and improved over time, offering a dynamic defense strategy.

Section 8: Social Implications—Walls That Divide

Beyond dollars, cents, and technology, the border wall also has profound social implications. It touches on themes of division and unity, security and freedom, and the complex nature of immigration.

For many, the wall represents a barrier, not just between nations but between people. It raises questions about identity, belonging, and the future of immigration policy. These social dimensions add another layer to the already multifaceted discussion, reminding us that behind every policy are real people with real stories.

Section 9: Lessons from History—Walls of the Past

In our quest to understand the border wall, it’s worth taking a stroll down history lane. From the Great Wall of China to the Berlin Wall, history is rich with examples of walls built for protection, division, or assertion of power.

These historical structures offer valuable lessons in understanding the potential successes and pitfalls of such projects. While each wall was unique in its context and purpose, the echoes of their impacts—both immediate and long-lasting—can guide current debates and decisions.

Section 10: Conclusion—Building Bridges, Not Just Walls

As we reach the end of our journey through the world of border walls, it’s clear that the issue is anything but black and white. It’s a complex tapestry woven with threads of economics, politics, environment, technology, and society.

While the cost of building the southern border wall is significant, it’s essential to weigh this against the broader implications and alternatives. At the heart of this debate is the desire for security and prosperity, but perhaps the answer lies not just in building walls but also in finding ways to build bridges—between ideas, people, and nations.

FAQs

1. Why is the cost to build a wall at the southern border so high?
Land acquisition, construction materials, labor, and maintenance contribute to the high costs. Legal and environmental challenges add to the bill.

2. Will the wall stop illegal immigration?
A wall alone is unlikely to stop illegal immigration, as it doesn’t address the root causes pushing people to migrate.

3. How will the wall impact US-Mexico relations?
The wall could strain diplomatic ties and affect trade, leading to economic repercussions on both sides.

4. Are there better ways to secure the border?
Yes, technology and comprehensive immigration reform offer viable alternatives that might be more cost-effective and humane.

5. What are the environmental impacts of the wall?
The wall could disrupt ecosystems, endanger wildlife, and lead to long-term ecological damage.

An updated post from this blog article that just touched on the wall.

Why Building a Border Wall Won't Solve Immigration Issues

 In the ongoing debate over border security, one solution frequently proposed is the construction of a physical wall along the border. While it’s a powerful visual of "taking action," a closer examination of immigration dynamics, security, and modern challenges reveals that a border wall is unlikely to address the underlying issues.

1. Modern Migration Patterns Don’t Rely on Border Crossings Alone

• Legal Entry and Overstaying: A significant portion of undocumented immigrants arrive legally and overstay their visas rather than crossing the border illegally. A wall doesn’t address this issue at all.
• Asylum Seekers and Refugees: Many migrants approach border checkpoints to legally request asylum. Under international law, they have a right to have their claims processed, and a wall wouldn’t deter those seeking lawful protection.

2. Expensive and Ineffective Use of Resources

• High Cost with Limited Results: The financial burden of building and maintaining a border wall is substantial, with estimates in the billions. These funds could be allocated to more effective measures, such as modernized security technologies and personnel training.
• Natural and Logistical Challenges: The border spans deserts, rivers, and mountains, making wall construction difficult and sometimes impractical. Additionally, in many remote areas, it would be costly and challenging to monitor the wall, leading to possible breaches and damage.

3. Modern Technology Offers Better Alternatives

• Advanced Surveillance: Drones, cameras, and other advanced surveillance equipment provide more flexibility and coverage than a fixed wall.
• Data-Driven Solutions: Technology allows border authorities to respond to suspicious activities more efficiently and track individuals who may pose risks without relying on outdated infrastructure.

4. Underlying Economic and Social Factors Drive Migration

• Push Factors in Home Countries: Economic hardship, violence, and corruption often drive people to seek safety and stability. Without addressing these root causes through diplomacy, foreign aid, and regional cooperation, people will continue seeking ways to cross borders regardless of barriers.
• U.S. Economic Demand for Labor: The U.S. economy relies on labor in sectors like agriculture, construction, and service industries. Without legal pathways to enter the workforce, people will continue finding ways to enter and stay in the country.

5. Environmental and Cultural Concerns

• Disruption to Ecosystems: Border regions are home to diverse wildlife and delicate ecosystems that would be disrupted by a wall. Animals that migrate across borders would be prevented from following natural routes, leading to environmental imbalances.
• Cultural Impact on Border Communities: Many Indigenous tribes and border communities have lived and moved across these regions for centuries. A physical wall disrupts their way of life and divides families and communities.

In Conclusion

Rather than investing in a massive construction project with limited effectiveness, a holistic approach to immigration and border security would yield far better results. Investments in technology, addressing root causes of migration, and creating legal pathways for work and asylum would address modern immigration realities. The challenges of immigration today require innovative and humane solutions—not simply building walls.