Week of November 8–14, 2024

Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard continue to collaborate on securing the border and combating illegal activities such as drug and human smuggling. Since launching Operation Lone Star, this multi-agency initiative has led to over 525,800 illegal immigrant apprehensions, 48,500 criminal arrests, and the seizure of more than 552 million lethal doses of fentanyl. The operation has reduced illegal crossings into Texas by over 86%, helping decrease the number of migrants transported to sanctuary cities.

As part of Texas' transportation program, the state has relocated thousands of migrants to cities like Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia. This effort is part of Texas' response to the federal government's perceived failure to secure the border. Recent highlights include the use of drone technology to aid border security, the ongoing construction of a border wall in Maverick County, and the crackdown on the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

Additionally, DPS officers have made significant arrests, such as the capture of a smuggler in Webb County and the seizure of 119 pounds of narcotics in Cameron County. Texas National Guard soldiers have also successfully turned back migrants attempting to cross illegally near Eagle Pass, with the support of drone teams and strategic border barriers.

Operation Lone Star continues to utilize every available tool to secure the border and combat illegal immigration and criminal activity, protecting Texas and the nation.

The National League of Cities (NLC) acknowledges the increasing challenges faced by communities nationwide due to rising in- and out-migration, particularly with the influx of refugees, asylees, migrants, and immigrants. Although immigration policies are controlled at the federal level, their impact is directly felt at the local level, affecting infrastructure and resources such as shelter, services, and support systems for new residents.

To address these challenges, the NLC emphasizes the importance of a strong partnership between federal and local governments. While local governments understand their communities' specific needs, federal support, including resources from Congress and the Administration, is critical for helping cities and towns manage these complexities.

In response to the lack of federal legislation to tackle immigration issues, the NLC has developed a dashboard for local leaders. This dashboard outlines federal programs that can assist localities in supporting their immigrant populations while complying with federal laws. The dashboard is divided into two sections: Local Governments and Immigrants/Residents.

For Local Governments, the dashboard highlights programs where localities are the direct recipients of funding. For Immigrants and Residents, it includes programs that benefit migrants, refugees, and asylees, providing guidance on how local governments can support their community members.

Local leaders can use the dashboard's filters to identify programs that match their needs, whether through competitive grants, formula funding, or resources to share with community partners. This tool helps cities effectively address immigration-related challenges in their communities.

The U.S. Social Security trust fund is projected to be depleted by 2033 unless Congress takes action, which would result in a 21% reduction in benefits for millions of Americans. This issue is largely driven by a declining worker-to-beneficiary ratio, as the aging population and lower birth rates reduce the number of workers paying into the system. In 1960, five workers supported each beneficiary, but by 2023, this ratio has dropped to three and is expected to fall further by mid-century.

Immigration could play a key role in alleviating some of these financial pressures. By 2040, immigration is expected to be the sole driver of U.S. population growth. Immigrants, who make up 19% of the labor force despite comprising only 14.3% of the population, help strengthen the worker-to-beneficiary ratio. Immigrants contribute significantly to Social Security, with unauthorized workers alone contributing billions in taxes, though they are ineligible for benefits.

Immigration levels can influence the financial health of the Social Security system. Higher levels of immigration could reduce the program’s long-term deficit. For example, increasing net immigration by 100,000 people annually could improve the trust funds’ balance by 0.1% of taxable payroll.

While immigration won't solve Social Security's funding issues entirely, it remains a crucial factor in supporting the system amid demographic challenges.

President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to deport millions of immigrants in his second term. Key figures in his administration, like Tom Homan, former acting chief of ICE, and Stephen Miller, an architect of restrictive immigration policies, will play central roles in this effort. Despite limited federal resources to execute mass deportations, ICE is expected to ramp up immigration enforcement quickly. This puts President Biden in a position to act swiftly to protect immigrants during his final days in office.

Biden must take action to protect DACA recipients, workers with pending work permits, and noncitizens with Temporary Protected Status (TPS). DACA recipients, over 500,000 individuals, face potential deportation under Trump’s plans. Many also have pending renewal requests. As of September 2024, over 1.2 million work permit applications are pending, and if Trump reimposes restrictive policies, these individuals may lose employment authorization.

Biden can extend and redesignate TPS for countries at risk, like El Salvador and Venezuela, and push for the permanent automatic extension of work permits, addressing ongoing processing delays. He can also prevent harm to non-priority detainees by releasing those who pose no public safety risk.

Trump's administration may also attempt to rescind Biden-era policies protecting asylum seekers, which Biden must act to preserve. With a limited window to protect immigrants, Biden can help mitigate the impact of Trump's immigration policies and provide critical relief to affected communities.

With the re-election of former President Donald Trump, employers and international investors should prepare for significant shifts in U.S. immigration policies, particularly in business immigration. Based on his first term, we anticipate several key changes:

Increased Scrutiny and Denial Rates: Expect heightened scrutiny for H-1B and L-1 visa applications, with stricter proof requirements for foreign worker necessity and wage compliance. The H-4 EAD program, which grants work authorization to H-1B spouses, may also be rescinded.

Enforcement and Compliance: There will likely be stronger enforcement of I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification, visa compliance, and worksite audits. Employers may face mandatory E-Verify requirements for all employees.

Merit-Based Immigration: A shift toward merit-based immigration, prioritizing economically beneficial immigrants, could be pursued.

Curtailment of Programs: Programs such as DACA and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) could face termination, and asylum policies may become more restrictive.

Travel Bans and Entry Restrictions: Travel bans or entry restrictions based on nationality or ideology could be reinstated, impacting business and work-related travel.

For employers, key actions include communicating with employees about potential changes, preparing for increased enforcement and audits, reviewing I-9 and E-Verify compliance, filing petitions early, and planning for travel delays.

Overall, the second Trump administration is expected to reduce legal immigration pathways and intensify enforcement, requiring employers to enhance compliance strategies and prepare for workforce disruptions.

In solidarity with immigrants, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, Bishop Mark J. Seitz, and Bishop Jaime Soto issued a statement calling for fair and humane treatment of immigrants in the United States. Their message, rooted in the Gospel and recognizing the dignity of every person, emphasizes the importance of immigrants in the country’s growth and prosperity. They highlight that immigrants have long been essential to the nation’s success, contributing to food security, healthcare, and other vital sectors.

The bishops advocate for a more just immigration system that offers fair pathways to citizenship, provides permanent relief for childhood arrivals, supports family unity, and welcomes refugees. They stress the need for a system that ensures asylum for those fleeing persecution and creates border policies focused on public safety. The bishops also call for policies that target those who present real risks to society, such as reducing gang activity and human trafficking, while protecting vulnerable migrants and their families from further harm.

The statement urges action for a comprehensive immigration reform that reflects the nation’s values of compassion and fairness. The bishops conclude by calling for a system that not only keeps borders secure but also offers a path to safety and opportunity for those seeking refuge in the U.S. Through this message, they advocate for an immigration approach that treats all people with dignity and respect.

After a seven-year battle, the university’s Justice & Immigration Clinic successfully secured asylum for a transgender woman from Guatemala, who fled severe abuse. Despite challenges like a late asylum filing, a complex criminal history, and two interviews with the Los Angeles Asylum Office, her case was approved, granting her lawful status and a new life in the U.S.

This victory highlights the clinic’s broader mission of providing critical legal services to vulnerable immigrants, including survivors of domestic violence and victims of violent crimes. Serving 3-5 clients each semester from the Inland Empire and beyond, the clinic offers direct representation in asylum, U visa, and deportation defense cases. Students, under faculty supervision, gain hands-on experience by preparing legal documents and managing cases.

The clinic, which started with a small cohort in 2007, has grown to accommodate up to 15 students per semester, reflecting both the rising demand for legal services and the increasing student interest in immigration law. "Our students gain real-world experience that is invaluable before they graduate," says Kevin Marshall, dean of the College of Law & Public Service.

Clinic alumni have gone on to successful careers in immigration law, with several working as asylum officers and USCIS officials. The clinic is also exploring opportunities to expand by partnering with the Santa Ana Immigration Court, offering further practical experience while continuing to transform lives through life-changing legal assistance.

Jasmine Rivera, director of the Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition, expressed disappointment and anger upon Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 election but was not surprised, emphasizing the long-standing preparations of immigrant advocacy groups. Trump’s first term saw significant anti-immigrant policies, including the “Muslim” travel ban, family separations at the border, and cuts to protections for DACA recipients and those with Temporary Protected Status. Immigrant organizers are bracing for similar policies and intensified enforcement.

Trump’s campaign promises include mass deportations, an end to birthright citizenship, and stoking fears about “migrant crime” despite research linking immigration to lower crime rates. Immigration lawyer Rachel Rutter is fielding numerous inquiries from concerned immigrants, particularly youth, about their status under a potential second Trump term. Rutter warns of increased raids and deportations, even if mass deportations are financially unfeasible.

In Pennsylvania, immigrants contribute significantly to the economy, paying over $1 billion in taxes annually. Deportations would impact the labor force, particularly in sectors like food service, and have long-term economic consequences. Anuj Gupta of The Welcoming Center emphasizes the economic interdependence between immigrants and native-born workers.

Rivera, alongside 60 coalition members, is strategizing to counter Trump’s policies through organizing, leadership development, and political education. Despite sanctuary city policies, activists like Claire Nguyen stress the importance of community support in protecting immigrant rights. Rivera calls for immediate action to dismantle the “deportation machine” before Trump takes office.

The Manhattan Institute’s (MI) 2024 study, The Lifetime Fiscal Impact of Immigrants, developed a detailed model to estimate the lifetime fiscal impact of immigrants on the U.S. federal budget. MI concluded that the average immigrant would generate a modest $10,000 net positive fiscal contribution in present value over their lifetime. However, the report highlighted that immigrants without a bachelor’s degree would be a significant fiscal burden, projecting that increased migration could cost the federal government over $1.1 trillion across a century.

Upon closer review, MI’s findings rely on several questionable assumptions, such as immediate, significant increases in defense spending due to new arrivals and no increase in corporate tax contributions. Adjusting these assumptions paints a more optimistic picture. When more realistic factors are incorporated—such as higher contributions by young, low-skilled immigrants and lower benefits usage among immigrant populations—the fiscal outlook improves substantially.

For example, MI’s original model estimated a 22-year-old high school dropout would create a lifetime fiscal deficit of $315,000. However, with revised assumptions, the same individual contributes a positive $45,000. Factoring in these adjustments, the model predicts that the new group of unlawful entrants could generate a cumulative $4.9 trillion positive fiscal impact over time.

These findings suggest that immigrants, particularly younger, low-skilled individuals, may provide significant long-term fiscal benefits to the federal budget when analyzed under more realistic economic scenarios.

Immigration played a pivotal role in the recent U.S. presidential election, ranking just behind the economy as a key issue for voters. Across the Western world, concerns about immigration’s effects on social integration and infrastructure have fueled political divisions, exemplified by Brexit and the rise of hard-right parties in Europe. The U.S. faces a similar divide, with Democrats pursuing a more lenient immigration policy, including ending the “Remain in Mexico” program, and Republicans advocating stricter measures, such as mass deportations and increased border security.

This polarization misses the moderate stance of most Americans. While many support curbing immigration, a Gallup poll shows 64% view immigration as beneficial. Moreover, though some favor deporting illegal immigrants, logistical and economic challenges make mass deportation unlikely. Economists warn that such actions could disrupt key industries, inflate deficits, and harm productivity.

Neither extreme—open borders nor mass deportation—adequately addresses the issue. Instead, a balanced immigration policy is needed to align with U.S. economic and strategic interests. Recognizing immigrants as contributors rather than competitors is essential for competitiveness. Secure borders can coexist with a fair, orderly immigration system that addresses public concerns.

Policymakers must also overhaul the asylum system, balancing humanitarian commitments with practical considerations. Long-term, the U.S. should support development in immigrant-sending countries, promoting political accountability, economic opportunity, and civil rights. Ultimately, sustainable immigration policies

12 Nov 2024- Research advocates see ‘no good news’ in Trump’s economic, immigration agenda

The election of Republican President-elect Donald Trump, with promises of tax cuts and strict anti-immigration measures, could harm U.S. science and research. Experts foresee cuts to basic research funding, restricted foreign scientist access, and dismissals of scientific consensus on climate change and public health. Neal Lane, former NSF director, warns of negative consequences for U.S. high-tech industries.

Research funding grew under President Biden but plateaued after a budget cap, with civilian science spending down 10%. Republican-led efforts to offset tax cuts may deepen these reductions, endangering bipartisan support for research funding. Senator Ted Cruz, expected to chair the Senate commerce and science committee, has opposed diversity initiatives and climate action, alarming advocates.

Major initiatives, like the CHIPS and Science Act aimed at revitalizing the U.S. semiconductor industry, may face Republican resistance, potentially undermining NSF budget growth. Similarly, Trump’s climate policies, including exiting the Paris Agreement and repealing the Inflation Reduction Act, could slow progress on renewable energy, though state and private sector initiatives may continue.

Tensions with China could lead to stricter research collaboration policies, threatening decades of partnerships. However, some hope for stronger alliances with other nations to counter China’s growing influence.

The incoming administration is expected to intensify immigration enforcement, particularly through ICE I-9 audits and raids, reversing the more relaxed approach under President Biden. Employers should prepare for heightened scrutiny, as compliance was a hallmark of Trump’s previous term.

From 2016 to 2020, ICE I-9 audits surged, peaking at 6,450 in FY2019, with plans for up to 15,000 audits in FY2020 before the pandemic curtailed efforts. ICE raids also resumed, with major operations like the 2018 Tennessee raid detaining over 100 employees. Audits and raids can cause significant operational disruptions and legal liabilities, making compliance critical.

I-9 Audits: These are formal inspections of employee documentation. ICE serves a Notice of Inspection (NOI), requiring employers to submit Forms I-9 and supporting documents within three business days. Substantive and technical violations can result in penalties ranging from $281 to $27,894 per infraction. Employers should never waive the three-day compliance period and should contact legal counsel immediately.

Raids: More disruptive than audits, raids involve surprise inspections based on warrants. Agents may seize records and detain undocumented workers. Employers should refrain from answering agents’ questions and should immediately contact legal counsel.

Preparation Tips: Employers should conduct internal I-9 audits, ensure proper staff training, and establish robust compliance procedures. Enrolling in E-Verify and avoiding cash payments can further reduce risks. Developing a PR strategy can mitigate reputational damage.

With stricter enforcement anticipated, proactive compliance measures are essential to avoid severe penalties and operational interruptions.

The Asylum and Human Rights Clinic at UConn School of Law offers life-changing support to immigrants and invaluable hands-on experience for law students.

Pabla Francisco Alonzo, an indigenous human rights defender from Guatemala, was granted asylum in February 2024 after fleeing threats against her and her baby. Similarly, Julián Ariza Lozano, a Colombian journalist persecuted for his sexual orientation and activism, won asylum in March 2024. Both credit the clinic for transforming their lives.

“I’m very grateful,” Francisco Alonzo said. Ariza Lozano recalled feeling “muy feliz” upon hearing his asylum grant.

Over the past year, the clinic helped 14 clients and 23 relatives gain lawful immigration status. Since its founding in 2002, it has secured relief for nearly 300 individuals. Students, under Professors Jon Bauer and Diana Blank, manage cases by interviewing clients, preparing legal documents, and representing them in court.

In Ariza Lozano’s case, Hollianne Lao ’25 and Natalie Casanova ’25 prepared a 500-page evidentiary packet with input from experts and family members. For Francisco Alonzo, Zoe Allison ’25 and Anthony Shimamoto ’24 brought extensive experience and dedication to their advocacy.

Students like Enrique Lopez Ramirez ’23 served as interpreters and advocates, with Lopez continuing his work after graduation in El Paso, Texas.

WASHINGTON — Immigration advocates are bracing for President-elect Donald Trump’s planned crackdown on immigration, including policies from his first term and mass deportations. Trump has vowed to end parole programs that allow over a million immigrants temporary legal protections and to reinstate controversial policies like the “Remain in Mexico” policy and bans targeting predominantly Muslim countries.

Sirine Shebaya, of the National Immigration Project, acknowledged the challenges ahead, promising support for those affected. Similarly, the ACLU is preparing legal challenges to Trump’s policies starting on day one.

Greisa Martínez Rosas of United We Dream, the largest immigrant youth organization, highlighted the stakes, vowing to build a powerful pro-immigrant movement to counter white nationalism and advocate for a pluralistic democracy.

Immediate deportations could target the 37,395 individuals already in ICE custody and expand expedited removals, potentially affecting 288,000 people. Tom Homan, former acting ICE director, stated that deportations would involve targeted arrests rather than mass sweeps.

Mass deportations could cost taxpayers $968 billion over ten years, according to the American Immigration Council. Costs include $89.3 billion for arrests, $167.8 billion for detention, and $34 billion for legal processing. Trump’s plans depend on securing funding through Congress, which could be more achievable with

President-elect Donald Trump’s anti-immigrant rhetoric has raised concerns about the future for immigrants, but their contributions are vital to Ohio’s economy. Immigrants make up 4.9% of Ohio’s population and 6.1% of its labor force, according to the American Immigration Council (AIC). They also account for 8% of entrepreneurs, 11.7% of STEM workers, and 5% of nurses in the state.

The AIC highlights immigrants’ roles as neighbors, business owners, and workers, noting their significant contributions to Ohio’s communities and economy. In Springfield, Haitian immigrants have helped revitalize the local economy by filling warehouse jobs. Ohio farmers also rely heavily on immigrant labor and advocate for reforms to ease labor flows.

In 2022, immigrants in Ohio paid $7 billion in taxes, spent $18.6 billion, and represented key industries. They made up 26.9% of doctors, 26% of software developers, 16.6% of postsecondary teachers, and 8.6% of health aides. Immigrant college students contributed $1.2 billion to Ohio’s economy, and 37,200 immigrant entrepreneurs earned $944 million.

Ohio’s 103,900 undocumented immigrants paid $616.2 million in taxes, and 9,600 of them were entrepreneurs. Refugees, with a 97% employment rate, paid $405.3 million in taxes.

While immigration has been shown to boost innovation and patent applications, studies suggest it can initially lower wages for native-born workers. However, long-term benefits include higher employment and restored wages as firms invest to balance labor supply.

Immigrants remain integral to Ohio’s economic and cultural vitality despite challenges.