An effort to pass an immigration deal providing a path to citizenship for DACA holders and limit southern U.S. border crossings has stalled. Based on reports from multiple outlets, the effort has failed. Other priorities, including funding the U.S. government, are taking precedence during the current lame-duck session. The last meaningful update to the immigration system was in the 1990s.

While both Republicans and Democrats agree that the immigration system needs reform, they remain unable to reach an agreement. Some believe the framework created for this latest effort may provide the basis for further efforts when the new Congress convenes in 2023. Specifically, the proposal includes efforts to reduce illegal border crossing at the U.S.-Mexico border, a Republican demand, with providing legalization for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) holders, a Democrat need. From the beginning, this effort was thought to be an uphill battle.

One of the reasons cited as to why the immigration deal did not move forward was the time limit of the lame-duck session and competing priorities. Some believe the framework is good and given more time, could proceed. With Title 42 expiring next week due to a court ruling, on December 21st, an influx of asylum seekers is expected at the southern border. Title 42 was enacted as COVID pandemic protection and enabled the U.S. border to send asylum seekers back across the border based on public health needs.

This is the latest effort of many to address immigration reform. Efforts in 2007, 2013, and 2018 all stalled. The first effort to legalize DACA was brought to Congress in 2001. The program remains in limbo, awaiting a judge’s ruling in 2023. The same judge previously found DACA illegal. There are over 600,000 Dreamers, as DACA holders are referred, in the U.S.

If you have questions about any immigration-related issue, contact us at ILBSG. We actively monitor ongoing updates to policy to ensure our clients get the right advice for their particular situations.

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