Immigration Reform to be Delayed

We have spoken to clients and written about the slim chances of having an immigration reform early into the upcoming Obama administration.  The Wall Street Journal has an article which analyzes the consequences of the changes in Congressional seats as a result of the recent election and how it may affect the immigration reform.

Some of the members of Congress opposed most to comprehensive immigration reform which would give a path to legalization to at least some of the illegal immigrants have either retired or lost their seats.  This has created some optimism that the path to immigration reform  may be cleared.  However, as the Journal writes, “Mr. Obama will be focused on the economy and tax policy and isn’t likely to expend political capital on such a divisive issue.”

While it is difficult to read the tea leaves of what the Obama administration may do with respect to immigration, one of the harbingers of what is to come may come in March when when the E-Verify program, which lets employers electronically verify the status of new workers, expires.  The program is a cornerstone of the current administration’s enforcement policies, but has opponents among civil liberty and immigrant organizations and groups.  The next administration could seek a five-year renewal, a brief extension or let it expire.  Based on what happens in March, we will know more about the priority immigration reform may take in the Obama administration.