S.2106 - Safe Environment from Countries Under Repression and Emergency Act; SECURE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The "SECURE Act" (S.2106) proposes a pathway to lawful permanent resident status for foreign nationals from countries designated under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED). It amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to allow eligible aliens to adjust their status if they meet specific criteria, such as continuous presence in the U.S. and passing background checks. The bill also addresses confidentiality of information provided in applications and introduces additional reporting requirements regarding the discontinuation of TPS for specific countries.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the SECURE Act would provide a legal avenue for many foreign nationals currently in the U.S. under TPS or DED to obtain permanent residency. This could lead to increased stability for these individuals and their families, as well as potential economic contributions from those who gain legal status. The reporting requirements could also lead to greater transparency in decisions regarding TPS designations.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a pathway to legal permanent residency for eligible foreign nationals.
- Offers stability and reduces uncertainty for individuals and families under TPS or DED.
- Could increase economic contributions from those who gain legal status.
- Ensures confidentiality of information provided in applications, protecting applicants from immigration enforcement based on that information.
- Introduces additional reporting requirements for TPS terminations, promoting transparency.
Potential Disadvantages
- May incentivize further illegal immigration if perceived as a general amnesty.
- Could strain resources of the Department of Homeland Security in processing applications.
- May face opposition from those who believe it rewards individuals who have violated immigration laws.
- Potential for fraud in applications, requiring robust verification processes.
- The fee of $1,440, while potentially waivable, could still be a barrier for some low-income applicants.
Constitutional Alignment
The SECURE Act aligns with the Constitution's broad delegation of power to Congress to establish immigration laws and naturalization rules (Article I, Section 8, Clause 4). The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional right. The bill's provisions for due process in application reviews and confidentiality of information also align with constitutional principles.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).