New Jersey Assembly Bill AR63

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Urges President and Congress to enact legislation granting amnesty and providing path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

Impact

The proponents of AR63 assert that legalizing undocumented immigrants would lead to greater economic benefits, including increased earnings, tax revenue, and the creation of jobs. The bill draws historical parallels to the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, which successfully provided amnesty to nearly three million immigrants, leading to positive outcomes in wage improvements, labor conditions, and overall societal contributions. This resolution positions the potential changes as not just beneficial for immigrants but for the overall American economy as well.

Summary

Assembly Resolution No. 63 (AR63) urges the President of the United States and Congress to enact legislation that provides amnesty and a pathway to citizenship for the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants currently residing in the United States. With a focus on the substantial contributions these individuals make to American society, the resolution highlights the need for policies that offer them legal status. The bill emphasizes that allowing undocumented immigrants to become citizens can enhance productivity, foster economic growth, and reduce illegal immigration by integrating these workers into the economy more fully.

Contention

While the resolution serves as a call to action for federal legislators, it also surfaces contentious issues surrounding immigration policy. Critics who argue against the granting of amnesty often cite concerns about border security and the belief that it may encourage further illegal immigration. The resolution counters these points by advocating for stricter border protections alongside a pathway to citizenship, attempting to alleviate fears while pushing for a legislative framework that recognizes and supports the worth of undocumented workers. The divergence of opinions on immigration remains a significant barrier in the political landscape surrounding AR63.