If passed, this bill would impact various aspects of immigration law, specifically the procedural aspects of granting temporary protected status. The new stipulations require a more rigorous investigative process and defined criteria that must be met for any foreign state to be designated for temporary protected status. This could potentially decrease the number of individuals eligible for such protections, limiting temporary residency to only the most pressing situations, which critics argue could lead to increased deportations in the face of ongoing humanitarian crises.
Summary
House Bill 10061, also known as the End Executive Branch Amnesty Act of 2024, seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act, particularly focusing on the reform of temporary protected status. The bill introduces new criteria for the designation of foreign states for temporary protected status, emphasizing that designations must arise from significant threats to personal safety due to armed conflicts, natural disasters, or extraordinary circumstances. Proponents of this reform believe it would create a more structured and case-based approach to immigration status in crises, as opposed to blanket policies that they argue could overwhelm services and dilute responsibilities.
Contention
Notable points of contention arise from the perceptions surrounding the term 'amnesty' associated with the bill. Critics, including some immigration advocacy groups, argue that limiting temporary protected status undermines the spirit of humanitarian assistance embedded in U.S. immigration laws. Additionally, the bill's parameters specifying the use of parole authority have raised concerns about how these changes might restrict access to legitimate asylum claims, particularly for those fleeing violence and persecution. Ultimately, the opposition underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers both national security and humanitarian obligations.
Fund and Complete the Border Wall ActThis bill establishes funding for a U.S.-Mexico border barrier and revises how border patrol agents are compensated for overtime.The Department of the Treasury shall set up an account for funding the design, construction, and maintenance of the barrier. The funds in the account are appropriated only for that purpose and for vehicles and equipment for border patrol agents.For each fiscal year, financial assistance to a country shall be reduced by $2,000 for each citizen or national of that country apprehended for illegally entering the United States through its southern border. The reduced amount shall be transferred to the border barrier account. The Department of State may opt not to reduce amounts appropriated to Mexico for various military and law enforcement-related activities.This bill establishes a 5% fee on foreign remittance transfers and increases the fee for the arrival/departure I-94 form for various aliens entering the United States, with part of the fees going to the border barrier account.By December 31, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security shall (1) take all actions necessary, including constructing barriers, to prevent illegal crossings along the U.S.-Mexico barrier; and (2) achieve operational control over all U.S. international borders.The bill changes how border patrol agents receive overtime pay when working up to 100 hours in a two-week period. For hours worked above 80, an agent shall receive at least 150% of the agent's regular hourly rate.