Modernize America’s Outdated, Ineffective Immigration System

Great things are possible when immigrants and non-immigrants have the freedom and opportunity to work together to build our nation and expand prosperity for all.  

That’s why we need to modernize America’s outdated, ineffective immigration system. Our nation’s future is brighter with more people here and contributing to it.  

Many of these people are fleeing untenable conditions in their countries of origin to build a better life in the U.S.  

A clear legal immigration process would make it easier for them and their children to join communities, find jobs, enroll in schools, and fully embrace the American Dream. 

Imagine what America would look like if these immigrants were able to plan for their futures, develop their talents, work, study, join in public service, and partake in other avenues that enable them to realize their potential.  

Creating the streamlined immigration process that would make this possible involves:  

• Creating a permanent solution for Dreamers: People deserve certainty and the ability to plan their lives. Yet Congress has taken more than 20 years to address this ongoing issue with a permanent legislative solution for Dreamers and those with Temporary Protective Status (TPS). We need a law that provides such certainty, including permanent status for Dreamers and TPS recipients, many of whom have lived in the U.S. for over two decades and have been contributors to our communities, and our nation’s fabric. 
• Modernizing the visa process: Our immigration system is complex and inefficient, built on laws that have not been updated in decades. We need solutions that streamline and increase access to legal immigration channels, strengthen security, accountability, and transparency, and ensure laws are clear, just, and applied equally. 
• Addressing the undocumented population: Today’s immigration system keeps too many decent, industrious people from fully participating in the American experience. For those who want nothing more than to build a better future and contribute to our society, a permanent legislative solution is needed. We support a system that recognizes contributing members among the undocumented population, affording individuals an opportunity to come out of the shadows and get right with the law. 
• Updating and enhancing border security and interior enforcement: We should know exactly who is coming in and out of our country. Border security efforts should focus on efficiently and effectively defending us from those who wish to do harm. Similarly, interior enforcement should prioritize resources to their most important use—maximizing safety and security—by prioritizing efforts towards removing those who present clear threats to safety. A more secure border will be achieved once we provide better and more accessible options for immigrants to enter legally, reducing a major incentive for coming here outside of our laws. Congress should enact solutions to modernize ports of entry, fortify infrastructure, enhance technological capabilities, and expand the use of alternatives to detention.