Immigration

Based on “Reforming the US Immigration Regime” case study: address the following In a 1 to 2 page policy memo: 1. Provide a brief history of the issue (only 2-3 paragraphs)-highlighting key points 2. Describe the 2013 attempt to reform U.S. immigration policy-highlighting the key points. 3. Be sure to address how the problem was defined in 2013 (not just from the perspective of the gang of 8 but from other relevant stakeholders as well. Remember to clearly identify the relevant stakeholders or groups of stakeholders and how they defined the problem so as to illustrate the variation in problem definition.

Answer:

Policy Memo

To: [Recipient] From: [Your Name] Date: [Date]

Subject: Reforming the US Immigration Regime: Lessons from the 2013 Attempt

1. Brief History of the Issue: The issue of immigration reform in the United States has a long and complex history, characterized by shifting policies and contentious debates. Immigration has been a central aspect of American identity and development, with waves of immigrants contributing to the country’s economic growth and cultural diversity. However, throughout history, immigration policies have been shaped by concerns over national security, economic competition, and cultural assimilation. Key points in the history of immigration policy include the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which abolished the national origins quota system and introduced a preference-based system for immigration, and the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, which granted amnesty to certain undocumented immigrants while also increasing border enforcement measures.

2. The 2013 Attempt to Reform U.S. Immigration Policy: In 2013, the United States witnessed a significant effort to reform immigration policy with the introduction of the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, commonly known as the Gang of Eight bill. This bipartisan legislation aimed to address various aspects of the immigration system, including border security, visa reforms, and a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. Key points of the bill included increased funding for border security measures, the establishment of a guest worker program, and the creation of a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who met certain criteria, such as paying fines and back taxes and passing background checks.

3. Problem Definition in 2013: The problem of immigration reform in 2013 was defined differently by various stakeholders, reflecting differing perspectives and priorities. The Gang of Eight, comprised of senators from both parties, framed the problem as the need to address the broken immigration system by enhancing border security, providing a pathway to legal status for undocumented immigrants, and modernizing the visa system to meet the needs of the economy. Proponents of the bill, including immigrant rights groups and business organizations, emphasized the humanitarian aspect of providing relief to undocumented immigrants living in the shadows and the economic benefits of immigration reform for the country.

On the other hand, opponents of the bill, such as anti-immigrant groups and some conservative lawmakers, framed the problem as one of national security and economic competition. They argued that granting amnesty to undocumented immigrants would encourage illegal immigration and undermine the rule of law, while also expressing concerns about the impact of immigration on American workers and wages. Additionally, some stakeholders, particularly border communities and immigrant advocacy organizations, highlighted the need to address human rights abuses and due process violations in immigration enforcement efforts.

In conclusion, the 2013 attempt to reform U.S. immigration policy illustrates the complexity of the issue and the diverse perspectives among stakeholders. While efforts were made to address various aspects of the immigration system, differing problem definitions and priorities ultimately led to the bill’s failure to pass Congress. Moving forward, policymakers must engage with a range of stakeholders and consider the diverse perspectives and needs of affected communities in crafting comprehensive immigration reform legislation.