Week of January 1–7, 2025

Foreign Workers and the H-1B Visa: Addressing Critical Needs in STEM Fields

Foreign professionals play a vital role in the U.S. labor market, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The H-1B visa program allows U.S. employers to hire highly skilled foreign workers for "specialty occupations" requiring at least a bachelor's degree. However, the demand for H-1B visas consistently exceeds the annual statutory cap of 65,000, with an additional 20,000 visas for individuals with advanced U.S. degrees. For Fiscal Year 2025, the cap was reached on December 2, 2024.

The H-1B visa initially grants a three-year stay, extendable up to six years. Employers must ensure hiring foreign workers does not negatively impact U.S. workers by filing a Labor Condition Application (LCA) certified by the Department of Labor. This includes attesting that the employment will not adversely affect wages or conditions for similarly employed workers and notifying existing employees of the intent to hire H-1B workers.

Research shows H-1B workers complement the U.S. workforce and fill gaps in STEM roles, fostering economic growth. Despite this, policies have fluctuated. Under the Trump administration, H-1B petition denials spiked, with initial employment denials rising to 24% in FY 2018. However, denial rates declined in subsequent years, reaching historic lows of 2% for both initial and continuing employment in FY 2022.

The H-1B visa program remains a cornerstone for addressing labor market shortages while ensuring protections for U.S. workers.

California Attorney General Issues Guidance to Protect Immigrant Students’ Rights

SACRAMENTO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta has released two sets of guidance to safeguard the educational rights of immigrant students and their families. The first guidance outlines the rights of immigrant students, including access to free public education and the confidentiality of personal information. The second guidance assists schools in complying with state laws limiting participation in immigration enforcement, addressing issues like information requests, court orders, and access to school grounds by immigration agents.

“Every child has the right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status,” said Attorney General Bonta. “These guidances aim to protect students and provide clarity to schools on their responsibilities under state law.”

Attorney General Bonta also held the third of five regional convenings with immigrant rights groups, officials, and advocates to address challenges and reinforce protections for immigrant communities.

Key Protections for Immigrant Students:

• Right to Education: All children, regardless of immigration status, are entitled to free public education.
• Enrollment Documentation: Schools must accept various documents for proof of age or residency and are not required to retain these documents.
• Confidentiality: Federal and state laws safeguard students’ personal information. Schools must obtain parental consent before releasing records, except in cases such as court orders or subpoenas.

These efforts reflect California’s commitment to supporting immigrant communities amid growing concerns about anticipated federal immigration policy changes. Attorney General Bonta emphasized continued collaboration with rights groups to uphold these protections.

Immigration Drives U.S. Population Growth Amid Debates

As the Trump administration prepares to implement stricter immigration policies, a new Census Bureau report highlights the critical role of immigration in U.S. population growth. From July 2023 to July 2024, the nation experienced its largest population increase in over 20 years, with immigration contributing more than four-fifths of this growth.

While natural population growth (births minus deaths) remains stagnant due to aging demographics, immigration has become essential to sustaining demographic expansion. The U.S. population grew by nearly 1% during this period, reaching 340 million—an increase of over 8 million since the 2020 Census.

Key trends include:

• Regional Growth: The South led population gains, though California, New York, and New Jersey also saw significant increases.
• Domestic Migration Decline: Migration from the Snow Belt to the Sun Belt has slowed, with immigration compensating for domestic migration losses in many states.
• State Impact: Immigration accounted for at least half of population growth in 38 states and all growth in 16 states, where natural decreases and out-migration would otherwise result in population loss.

This reliance on immigration underscores its importance for future U.S. demographic stability. As natural increase remains low, immigration will be vital to sustaining population growth nationwide.

The report emphasizes the need for policies that support immigration to maintain economic and demographic vitality, particularly as population aging continues to limit natural growth.

Americans Have Mixed Expectations for Trump’s Second Term

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his second term, Americans express mixed views on his potential achievements. While optimism exists for some policy goals, skepticism dominates others.

The highest expectation is for Trump to control illegal immigration, with 68% of Americans believing he will succeed. Majorities also anticipate he’ll reduce unemployment, strengthen the economy, keep the country safe from terrorism, avoid war, lower taxes, and reduce crime.

However, many doubt his ability to address other key challenges. Most Americans do not believe Trump will heal political divisions, improve the environment, reform healthcare, improve race relations, enhance education, significantly reduce the federal budget deficit, or improve conditions for minorities and the poor. They also doubt he’ll lower grocery prices and other costs.

Opinions are more divided on whether Trump will improve the functioning of the federal government or boost respect for the U.S. abroad, with the public split evenly on these issues.

One notable shift since 2016 is an increased belief that Trump will keep the U.S. out of war, reflecting a significant change in public perception.

While Americans foresee some successes, their doubts on many other fronts suggest tempered expectations for Trump’s presidency. These mixed sentiments highlight the challenges and opportunities awaiting the administration as it seeks to address the nation’s pressing concerns.

What to Expect From U.S. Immigration Under a Second Trump Administration

The U.S. immigration system, encompassing laws, policies, and programs, could face significant changes under a second Trump administration. Building on his first term, Trump has promised to sharply reduce legal and illegal immigration and conduct what he calls the “largest domestic deportation operation in American history.”

Key policies likely to be impacted include:

• Alien Enemies Act: Trump plans to use this 1798 law to bypass due process in deporting criminal gang and cartel members.
• Birthright Citizenship: Trump has proposed ending automatic citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants, though this would likely require a constitutional amendment.
• Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Plans include adding 10,000 agents and completing the border wall.
• Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): The future of this program for undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children remains uncertain.
• Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP): Trump intends to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, requiring asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while their cases are processed.

Other proposals include rolling back Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations, revoking humanitarian parole programs, and reviving Title 42 for public health-based expulsions.

Trump’s vision emphasizes border enforcement and deportations, with limited reforms for high-skilled immigration. Critics warn these changes could strain international relations and humanitarian protections. The outcome of these proposals could significantly shape U.S. immigration policy and its impact on millions.

Should the U.S. Offer a Path to Citizenship for Undocumented Immigrants?

Path to Citizenship and Immigration Reform: Key Facts

The term "path to citizenship" refers to a special process allowing undocumented immigrants to gain U.S. citizenship, often involving additional requirements like fees and background checks. Citizenship grants access to government benefits, voting rights, and protection from deportation, even for certain crimes.

“Legalization” differs by offering undocumented immigrants legal status without citizenship. It allows work authorization and protection from deportation but denies voting rights, government benefits, and family sponsorship privileges.

Historically, policies like the 1986 Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA), signed by President Ronald Reagan, provided a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants meeting specific criteria. Over 2.6 million immigrants applied for temporary legal status, with many later gaining permanent residency and citizenship. However, stricter immigration laws in the 1990s increased deportations and complicated legal residency applications.

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, introduced in 2012 under President Obama, offered deportation relief to undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children but did not provide a path to citizenship. Efforts to terminate DACA have faced legal challenges, and its future remains uncertain.

Immigration continues to spark heated debate. A 2022 poll revealed that while 70% of Americans support a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, 73% also favor stronger border security. Recent policies, such as President Biden's 2024 initiative easing the legalization process for long-term immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens, highlight ongoing efforts to balance security with humanitarian measures.

Schools Prepare for Potential Immigration Enforcement

Schools nationwide are addressing how to respond if immigration agents visit, as President-elect Donald Trump’s immigration policies spark concern. Trump’s campaign promises to deport millions have fueled anxiety among immigrant families.

Many school districts in cities like Chicago and New York have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting students, regardless of immigration status. California officials issued a 54-page guide outlining state and federal protections, emphasizing limited cooperation with immigration authorities. Attorney General Rob Bonta reassured families, stating, “I want to make sure students, their parents, and their teachers...are prepared.”

Historically, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) avoids sensitive locations like schools, but California’s guidance cautions that these policies could change. It advises schools to develop plans for responding to law enforcement requests.

An estimated 733,000 school-aged children are undocumented, according to the Migration Policy Institute. Schools like Des Moines Public Schools, where a quarter of students are English language learners, have pledged to limit ICE interactions. Chicago Public Schools similarly requires criminal warrants before granting access to agents.

In Vermont, Principal Chris Young emphasized the importance of maintaining schools as safe spaces for students, particularly those worried about deportation. “We want them to think that school is a safe place,” he said, highlighting policies to safeguard students' well-being.

Educators continue to reassure families, stressing that children’s safety and ability to learn remain priorities amid ongoing debates over immigration enforcement.

House Passes Immigration Bill Focused on Crime Prevention

The House of Representatives passed its first policy legislation of the new Congress on Tuesday, approving the Laken Riley Act, which targets undocumented immigrants charged with crimes. Named after 22-year-old nursing student Laken Riley, who was murdered by an undocumented Venezuelan immigrant, the bill mandates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) detain such individuals.

House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the importance of border security, calling the act “a big part” of addressing the issue. The bill passed with bipartisan support in a 264-159 vote, including 48 Democrats alongside all voting Republicans. It also allows state attorneys general to sue DHS if they believe immigration policies harm their state or residents.

The bill had previously stalled in a Democrat-led Senate but is gaining traction in the now GOP-controlled chamber. Sen. John Fetterman became the first Senate Democrat to co-sponsor the legislation, stating it provides tools to prevent tragedies like Riley’s death while addressing systemic issues.

Critics, including Rep. Jamie Raskin, argue the bill is a politically motivated measure that doesn’t tackle core immigration issues. Raskin warned it could require detaining undocumented immigrants even without convictions or charges, calling it a “radical departure” from current policies.

The GOP has pledged to prioritize border security, framing the Laken Riley Act as part of broader efforts to strengthen immigration enforcement. A Senate vote is expected Friday, with Republicans emphasizing its importance ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

Canada Faces Immigration and Housing Concerns Amid Trudeau's Resignation

Immigration has become a polarizing issue in Canada, which traditionally avoided such debates. However, recent protests and campaign groups, fueled by housing shortages and rising rents, have contributed to public frustration, culminating in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation. Many believe these challenges, combined with concerns over immigration, played a role in his departure.

For instance, a single bedroom for rent in Brampton, Ontario, appears to be a bargain at just C$550 (£300), far below the average rent of C$2,261 for a one-bedroom in the area. However, the "room" is actually a small bathroom with a mattress crammed next to the sink and toilet, a stark symbol of the housing crisis. Other listings, such as beds placed in laundry areas or kitchen corners, reflect the severe shortage of affordable housing.

Despite Canada’s vast land, there aren’t enough homes to meet growing demand, leading to a nearly 20% increase in rents over the past three years, according to property consultancy Urbanation. The accommodation shortage has worsened as more people move to Canada, exacerbating the situation.

With increasing public dissatisfaction, immigration, once a less contentious issue, has risen to the forefront of national concerns. This shift in attitudes has prompted questions about how Canada will manage its immigration policies amid growing frustration with housing affordability.

The Division of Belonging and Student Affairs at Marquette University invites faculty and staff to attend a professional development session aimed at enhancing understanding of students impacted by immigration status issues. This includes Dreamers, undocu/DACAmented students, and those from mixed-status families.

The session will take place on Thursday, Jan. 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. in the AMU Lunda Room. Attendees can enjoy coffee and breakfast pastries while participating in this important discussion.

The session will provide valuable information on the unique challenges faced by these students, along with an overview of university policies regarding interactions with immigration law enforcement. This is a vital opportunity for staff and faculty to better support students who may be navigating complex immigration issues.

For more details or to RSVP, please contact Dr. Jacki Black, the director of Hispanic Initiatives and Diversity and Inclusion Educational Programming. Dr. Black is also the chair of the Dreamers Support Committee, which works to foster an inclusive environment for all students regardless of their immigration status.

This professional development session is an important step in ensuring Marquette remains a supportive and understanding community for students from diverse backgrounds.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is starting the new year by urging the Florida Legislature to call a special session to address several key issues, including immigration, condominium safety, hurricane relief, and election law. DeSantis has expressed concern over the incoming Trump administration’s plans for mass deportations and wants Florida to be prepared to act on potential federal executive orders related to illegal immigration. He has discussed the issue with President-elect Trump and is pushing for additional state legislation to complement federal efforts to curb illegal immigration.

The governor also seeks legislative action to assist with condominium safety following the 2021 Champlain Towers South collapse. DeSantis is hopeful that lawmakers can find solutions to the financial strain condo owners face due to inspection and reserve funding mandates.

Additionally, DeSantis is calling for immediate financial relief for homeowners and businesses affected by hurricanes, emphasizing the need for state assistance ahead of the regular legislative session. He also wants to address fraudulent signature-gathering in the state’s election process, proposing changes to election laws to prevent future issues.

Despite DeSantis’ push for a special session, some legislative leaders, including Senate President Ben Albritton and House Speaker Daniel Perez, have previously downplayed the necessity of immediate action on these issues. However, DeSantis remains determined to work with the Legislature to address these critical concerns in the coming months.

On December 27, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) in Boston assisted the Revere Police Department in identifying a Dominican national, Leonardo Andujar Sanchez, 28, who was residing in a state-funded migrant shelter. Andujar was arrested on charges related to firearms and drug offenses and is currently in state custody. ERO Boston has filed an immigration detainer against him, ensuring that ICE will take custody upon his release.

Acting ERO Boston Field Office Director, Patricia H. Hyde, emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting that Andujar is facing multiple criminal charges, including possessing dangerous weapons and drug trafficking. With the Revere Police Department’s cooperation, ICE aims to apprehend Andujar once he is released from state custody.

Following his arrest, ERO officers conducted a Spanish-language interview, confirming that Andujar entered the U.S. illegally within the past year. The Chelsea District Court arraigned him on December 30, charging him with multiple offenses, including possessing firearms and trafficking in over 200 grams of heroin, morphine, opium, or fentanyl.

ERO is the primary federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement in the U.S., working to protect public safety by arresting and removing individuals who pose a threat to communities or violate immigration laws. With over 7,700 personnel across the country, ERO plays a vital role in maintaining homeland security and upholding the integrity of U.S. immigration laws.

Recent U.S. immigration trends have sparked debates about the social and economic impacts, with a particular focus on whether official statistics accurately reflect the scale of new arrivals. Policymakers and researchers often rely on the Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey (CPS) to assess immigration’s impact on the labor market. However, other data sources suggest immigration levels may be higher than what the CPS estimates.

For instance, the CPS projected a net increase of 3.94 million immigrants from January 2022 to October 2024, while the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), using additional data, estimated a net increase of 8.65 million. This discrepancy raises concerns about the completeness of CPS data.

Since official unemployment statistics rely on CPS data, some worry that an undercount of immigrants could skew the unemployment rate, making it seem lower than the true demand for labor. While recent immigrants tend to have higher unemployment rates, their small share of the overall labor force means their exclusion from CPS data has a minimal effect on the broader unemployment figures.

The official unemployment rate, based on CPS data, is calculated by dividing the number of unemployed individuals by the labor force, which includes those actively seeking work. Immigration status is also tracked in the CPS, but it only provides a range of years for when immigrants arrived, making it challenging to precisely track labor market outcomes for recent arrivals.

WASHINGTON (CN) — House Republicans made a strong start for President-elect Donald Trump’s policy agenda by advancing the controversial Laken Riley Act in the early days of the new Congress.

The bill, named after a University of Georgia student killed by a Venezuelan immigrant, passed the House with a 252-157 vote. It requires U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to detain undocumented immigrants charged with theft, burglary, or shoplifting. The bill also allows states to sue the Department of Homeland Security for failing to comply with federal immigration policies.

Georgia Representative Mike Collins, who sponsored the bill, stated it would address the issue that contributed to Riley’s death. The perpetrator, Jose Ibarra, had previously been cited for shoplifting before committing the murder. Collins argued that ICE’s inability to detain and deport immigrants involved in minor crimes like shoplifting was a failure of the system.

Democrats, however, opposed the bill, warning that it could lead to detaining and deporting undocumented immigrants who were only accused of minor crimes but not convicted. Representative Jamie Raskin argued that expanding mandatory detention to include accusations rather than convictions would blur the lines between minor and serious offenses.

Despite Democratic opposition, the bill gained support from 48 House Democrats. The legislation, a key part of Trump’s immigration agenda, is expected to be taken up in the Senate, where bipartisan support is also growing.

Federal immigration agents will be conducting operations in Bakersfield this week, local officials confirmed. The Bakersfield Police Department informed 17 News that the Department of Homeland Security had alerted them to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operations in the city and surrounding Kern County area.

The exact nature of the operations has not been specified, but recent reports on social media suggest a surge in federal raids targeting undocumented residents. Numerous photos, videos, and posts circulated on Tuesday showing CBP agents engaging with individuals in various locations across Bakersfield. Witnesses reported agents stopping vehicles, speaking with drivers and passengers, and taking some individuals into custody. One witness at a gas station near Merle Haggard Drive and Highway 65 said multiple people were detained.

The reports also suggest that agents have been stopping cars and conducting checks at locations frequented by migrant farmworkers. Rosa Lopez of the ACLU in Southern California expressed concern, stating that CBP agents were allegedly "profiling folks" at transient sites for farmworkers.

While the Bakersfield Police Department has yet to provide further details, the presence of federal immigration agents in the area has sparked significant attention, particularly among local migrant communities. These operations come amid growing concerns over immigration enforcement actions nationwide.