(DailyVantage.com) – With just weeks remaining in President Joe Biden’s term, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has introduced a policy that extends work permit renewals for migrants from 180 days to 540 days. The rule, set to take effect on January 13, 2025, is framed as a solution to administrative delays and a way to help businesses fill jobs, but critics argue it comes at the expense of American workers.
Mayorkas described the change as a win for employers and communities, claiming it would “eliminate red tape” and ensure that migrants with pending work permit renewals could continue contributing to the economy. USCIS Director Ur Jaddou echoed these sentiments, saying the rule helps businesses retain workers while avoiding disruptions caused by delays in processing renewals.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from Republican lawmakers and economic observers, who view the policy as detrimental to American workers struggling with wage stagnation and inflation. Immigration Subcommittee Chairman Tom McClintock (R-CA) rebuked Jaddou during a hearing last week, calling the extension another blow to working families. “If anyone wonders why real wages for working families have declined under this administration, look no further than the agency before us today,” McClintock said.
Data seems to bolster these concerns. In the past year, over a million foreign-born workers secured U.S. jobs, while nearly 800,000 native-born Americans exited the workforce. A Pew Research Center study from July revealed that, as of 2022, more than 30 million legal immigrants and undocumented migrants were employed in the U.S.—a 20% increase over the last 15 years. Meanwhile, native-born workforce growth lagged behind at under 10% during the same period.
For years, Democratic mayors and advocacy groups have lobbied for expanded employment authorization for migrants. With this policy change, Mayorkas has delivered, arguing that the extension helps meet labor demands in a “robust economy.” However, opponents warn the policy prioritizes migrants over struggling American workers, particularly those in low-wage sectors hardest hit by inflation.
As the rule’s implementation date approaches, the debate over its economic and social impact underscores larger questions about the Biden administration’s immigration policies and their consequences for the American workforce. Whether the policy delivers on its promise or exacerbates existing challenges remains to be seen.
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