LANSING, MI (WKZO AM.FM) – Michigan’s government officials, immigration-reform groups and families affected by immigration policies, are celebrating President Joe Biden’s recent executive action.
The order offers work permits and legal status to long-term immigrants, including those married to U.S. citizens under the conditions they have lived in the U.S. for at least 10 years and have no criminal record. The plan mirrors the Obama administration’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals in 2012.
Michigan is home to about 90,000 undocumented immigrants.
Rep. Laurie Pohutsky, D-Livonia, spoke at a gathering supporting Biden’s new policy.
“What the Biden administration did is consistent with the values of our country and as a state,” Pohutsky contended. “It upholds the dignity and justice of our families. We can have greater security on the border and we can have compassion for those who’ve been in our communities and have families.”
Those opposed to Biden’s new immigration plan, particularly Republicans, said it invites people to break America’s laws. The nation has approximately 500,000 unauthorized immigrants married to U.S. citizens.
Sen. Aric Nesbitt, R-Lawton, does not support the president’s new immigration policy.
“In America, you don’t reward people for breaking the law,” Nesbitt asserted. “This new proposal does just that. Instead of focusing on strengthening our southern border, the Biden administration has decided to propose another amnesty plan for those who violated our nation’s laws and our sovereignty.”
Critics of the new policy also maintain it puts the safety of Americans at risk, especially those who live in border states. Supporters argued long-term undocumented immigrants have lived on average for 15 years in the U.S., working, paying taxes and raising American children, and they believe the president’s new policy will help keep families together, boost the economy and grow the workforce.
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