Law Office of Joseph B. Caraccio

Proposed Policy Change

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced a regulatory proposal that would limit employment authorization (EADs) for certain individuals, including humanitarian parolees. The changes proposed would reduce the current work permit duration for certain populations and require employer E-Verify participation (which currently remains optional for employers), biometrics, and a higher standard of review.

Impact

The proposed policy change would have a profound impact on the ability of many noncitizens to even seek immigration benefits in the US. By cutting off noncitizens’ ability to earn money to support themselves DHS would effectively deprive them of the ability to even apply. No one can apply and wait years with no way to support themselves during that time period. This policy change will directly impact those here on humanitarian parole and deferred action, impacting their ability to support themselves and provide for their families.

This policy change will also impact US citizens and the US economy as a whole. This policy would result in businesses abruptly losing the employees they depend on and would reduce the labor pool dramaticallty, triggering widespread labor shortages. If passed, the shorter duration and increased restrictions could create greater instability and force workers out of the formal economy.

What You Can Do

By law, federal agencies must review and respond to every significant or unique public comment before a rule becomes final. When enough people speak out about the harm a policy will cause, the government may reconsider its impact and feel pressured to change or abandon the plan.

The public can submit an official comment regarding these changes before they are implemented.