Immigration Reform Update

September 26, 2006

There has been extensive national and local reporting about the immigration reform debate in Congress. The debate over immigration reform continues between those who believe immigration must be dealt with in a comprehensive package and those who would move an “enforcement-only” agenda. Pressure continues to mount as both the House and Senate remain on target to adjourn on Friday, September 29, to allow members of Congress to focus on the upcoming mid-term elections.

The House has recently passed bills that focus only on immigration enforcement. Attention has now turned to the Senate debate on whether these bills are viable, and, if so, whether they should be attached to a must-pass appropriations bill or if they should be voted on separately. Senate Republicans are struggling within their own ranks because leading members of the party disagree on whether a comprehensive approach or piece-meal approach to immigration reform is the best strategy.

Congress is expected to return to Washington for a brief session after the November election in what is called a “lame duck” session. Votes this week will help to determine what actions must be taken during this upcoming session. It remains to be seen whether there will be an opportunity for additional discussion of immigration reform during the brief lame duck session. NAFSA will continue to keep you up to date as additional information becomes available.