Immigration Reform – On Hold This Year?

We have written and reacted previously on developments related to immigration reform here in Washington, DC (March 12, 2010 and March 18, 2010).   Our articles developed a fair amount of comments, excitement and hope.  However, the uncertainty and the current political climate here in Washington may make comprehensive immigration reform a rollercoaster ride.

In comments from late yesterday, President Obama has said that “there may not be an appetite” to overhaul the nation’s immigration laws this year, even though he believes there is a pressing need to do so.  According to the Washington Post,  even though Mr. Obama considers immigration a top issue for his administration, he recognizes that it may not happen soon due to the  political climate in Washington.  According to the Washington Post,

“It’s a matter of political will,” Obama said [and] added, “This is a difficult issue. It generates a lot of emotions. . . . I need some help on the Republican side.”

Even though there has been increase in talk about immigration reform, especially after the recent passage of a strict anti-immigrant law in Arizona, Mr. Obama’s comments seem to put a cold shower on top of the recent talk and immigration reform proposals.    Despite Mr. Obama’s comments, many in Washington are still hopeful that a compromise and Republican help will arrive this year.  We will continue monitoring developments here in Washington relating to immigration proposals.