Immigration Reform Looking Up in 2014

Jan. 2, 2014

Is Boehner Finally on Board for Immigration Reform in 2014?

Though there has been speculation for the past several months that House Speaker John Boehner was ready to embrace some sort of immigration reform, the New York Times reported on New Year’s Day that he may finally be getting serious.

In the article, the NYT reported that unnamed sources within Boehner’s camp have indicated he is open to a “step by step” approach to immigration reform. Though Democrats and immigration advocates have long fought for a sweeping, comprehensive immigration reform bill that would tackle both business and family-based immigration, and provide a pathway to citizenship, President Obama has stated that he would consider a piecemeal approach as long as it addressed the administration’s key priorities.

This is another welcome bit of news for those within the immigration community who have become accustomed to dealing with disappointment. The past two years have taught me that this Congress will never miss a chance to disappoint … but the leaks coming out of the Boehner camp, coupled with his recent hire of Rebecca Tallent as a chief advisor, give me hope that he is finally willing to stand up to the Tea Party and the far-right wing of the Republican party and take some action. If nothing else, it’s a promising development and a signal of hope for the New Year.

And if you or someone you know is facing deportation or other legal action due to your immigration status, contact me any time at my Washignton, DC law offices.