NE Wyoming News

On November 21, 2024, Congresswoman Harriet Hageman introduced the Visa Integrity Preservation Act. The proposed legislation aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to address a loophole that reportedly enabled the Biden administration to grant amnesty to over 500,000 immigrants who entered the United States illegally or overstayed their visas. The bill stipulates that these individuals must leave the U.S. and undergo an interview before obtaining a nonimmigrant visa. Additionally, it would prevent them from reentering under certain conditions.

Congresswoman Hageman criticized current policies, stating, "The Biden/Harris open border policies have allowed over 12 million unvetted migrants to illegally enter our country. Their blatant and intentional refusal to enforce immigration laws is well documented in President Biden’s nearly 100 executive orders that are designed to subvert safeguards against illegal entry, including 'Parole in Place' orders." She further explained that her bill seeks to "close this loophole and reestablish proper parole procedures."

The context for this legislative proposal dates back to June 18, 2024, when the Biden-Harris Administration announced an initiative granting amnesty to approximately 500,000 illegal immigrants. This policy allows spouses and children who are illegally present in the country to register for lawful status without leaving the U.S., a process known as "parole in place." According to Congresswoman Hageman's office, President Biden's executive action takes advantage of an INA provision permitting the Secretary of State to waive in-person consular interviews under specific national interest or emergency circumstances. However, they argue that it does not authorize widespread waivers for illegal immigrants.

For more information on this issue, contact Chris Berardi, Senior Advisor/Communications Director.