New US Immigration Bill Proposes Major Overhaul
A new immigration bill introduced in the US House of Representatives proposes significant changes to the country's legal immigration system, including scrapping the green card lottery and limiting family-based visas. The proposed legislation, titled the "Americans First Immigration Act," was introduced by Republican Congressman Barry Moore and aims to shift the focus toward a merit-driven system that prioritizes high-skilled workers.
Key Provisions of the Bill
If passed, the bill would end the diversity visa lottery programme, which currently allocates up to 50,000 visas annually to individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the United States. The legislation would also restrict family sponsorship to immediate relatives only. Under the new rules, US citizens would no longer be able to sponsor parents, siblings, or adult children for immigration. Family-based visas would be limited to spouses and minor children of citizens, as well as spouses and children of green card holders. Extended family members could still apply, but only through merit-based pathways.
Merit-Based Points System
At the heart of the bill is a move to a points-based system for evaluating immigrants. Applicants would be judged on factors such as English proficiency, education level, salary, age, and military service. To be eligible, they must have a job offer that pays at least double the average wage in the state where they plan to live. This system is designed to attract high-skilled workers who can contribute to the US economy.
Stricter Employer Requirements
Employers would also face stricter rules under the proposal. They must demonstrate that they have genuinely tried to hire American workers before offering a job to a foreign national. This includes sharing details of US candidates considered, including the pay offered. The Department of Labor would be responsible for verifying compliance with these requirements.
Mandatory Pledge for Migrants
The bill introduces a mandatory pledge for incoming migrants. Applicants would need to affirm support for the US Constitution and renounce associations with groups involved in practices such as honour killings, female infanticide, or genital mutilation. False declarations could lead to deportation or even loss of citizenship.
Support and Criticism
Julie Kirchner, senior advisor at the America First Policy Institute, expressed support for the proposal, particularly the elimination of the diversity visa scheme. She cited a "long, documented history of fraud and national security concerns" associated with the visa lottery. The bill retains a limited provision for religious worker visas, capped at 3,000 annually.
Congressman Moore stated, "My bill draws a hard line - the days of putting illegals, random diversity lotteries, and foreign labor ahead of American workers are over." He emphasized that the immigration system should serve the American people and select individuals who will strengthen the economy, respect laws, and share values.
