The Biden administration is set to announce an executive action on Tuesday that will offer protections to undocumented spouses of American citizens, shielding approximately 500,000 immigrants from deportation. This new initiative is described as a significant step in U.S. immigration policy, potentially the most impactful since the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
According to sources familiar with the matter, including immigration advocates and Capitol Hill staffers, this executive action will introduce the “parole in place” program. This program aims to facilitate the legal residency process for undocumented spouses, potentially paving the way for green card eligibility and a path to U.S. citizenship. Additionally, it will allow these individuals to obtain work permits on a case-by-case basis.
“This is the biggest thing since DACA,” commented an immigration advocate involved in the discussions, highlighting the political and social significance of the move. The announcement comes as the Biden administration faces pressure from immigration advocates and Democratic lawmakers to address the needs of long-term undocumented residents. It also reflects the administration’s efforts to strengthen support among Latino voters in key battleground states such as Nevada and Arizona.
Lawmakers have been briefed on the planned executive action, with some invited to the White House for the official announcement. NBC News had reported last week that the Biden administration was likely to unveil such protections soon.
In addition to this major policy shift, President Joe Biden is expected to introduce new measures for DACA recipients. These measures will focus on individuals who have earned higher education degrees and are seeking employment in their fields of study, providing them with enhanced opportunities to contribute to the U.S. economy.
While the executive action represents a significant advancement in immigration policy, it is anticipated to face legal challenges. The administration’s move comes amidst ongoing debates over immigration reform and the status of undocumented individuals in the United States. It’s also sure to invoke criticism from the Republican party and used in it’s presidential candidate, Donald Trump, in his campaign.
