For Congress, the Thanksgiving break leaves a number of questions unanswered. Most will be concerned over the debate that will ensue over tax reform, but perhaps the most important unanswered question will be about immigration reform.
President Trump announced in September that the administration would not renew the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that provided legal protections for so many undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children. The ostensive rationale was to give Congress an opportunity to create legislation that would take the place of the Obama-era program.
However, with legislators more divided than ever, and with tax reform being a critical item on Republicans’ agenda, it remains to be seen whether such legislation will become reality in 2018. After all, many Republicans are up for election next year, and they may not be comfortable straying from conservative roots.
However, it appears that work is being done despite the divisiveness. A recent report from thehill.com highlighted a task force created by House Republicans dedicated to finding a legislative solution for DACA. As one might imagine, Democrats are skeptical about an actual solution, given the number of conservative hard liners on the panel, and the lack of any Democrats on it.
In light of this political maneuvering, the importance of an experienced immigration law attorney cannot be understated. A skilled lawyer can counsel those facing immigration issues and help them make informed decisions so that they will not be bullied with the common fears that cause so many to make decisions against their own interests.
The preceding is not legal advice.