Hawaii Senate Bill SR112

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Report Pass: 4/4/23
• Passed: 4/5/23

Caption

Encouraging The Facilitation Of A Path To Citizenship For Immigrants From Parties To The Compacts Of Free Association.

Impact

Should Congress respond positively to SR112, there would be significant changes to immigration policy related to COFA nations. By creating a path to citizenship, it would potentially improve access to healthcare, social security, and other benefits that COFA citizens currently lack. This resolution also states a request for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to halt deportations of COFA immigrants, highlighting a shift towards more humane treatment of these populations under U.S. law.

Summary

Senate Resolution 112 (SR112) encourages the United States Congress to create a pathway to citizenship for immigrants from the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands. These nations are part of the Compacts of Free Association (COFA) with the U.S., which allows their citizens to reside and work in the U.S. without a visa, but currently does not offer a route to citizenship. SR112 acknowledges a historical context of U.S. nuclear testing in these regions and emphasizes the need for legislative action to support the rights of these immigrants.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR112 is largely supportive, particularly among advocates for immigrant rights who see it as a necessary step towards rectifying historical injustices faced by these communities. However, there may also be opposition from those who argue about the implications of changing immigration laws and their potential impacts on resource allocation and national security.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise from the discussion of benefits provided to COFA citizens compared to other immigrant groups. Some legislators may argue against expanding citizenship pathways, citing concerns about the fiscal impact and resource strain on state services. As such, while the resolution seeks to address historical grievances and current inequities, it also opens up broader debates regarding immigration reform and the rights of non-citizens.