IMMIGRATION POLICY

America was built by millions of immigrants who have continuously contributed to our economy and society. For years, activists, Dreamers and advocacy groups have been fighting to create a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients and other undocumented immigrants.

While the Build Back Better Act could have served as the vehicle to deliver this change, achieving a pathway to citizenship will not be possible due to the parliamentarian’s various rulings. However, future reconciliation packages still offer an opportunity to pass critical protections for our undocumented friends, neighbors and colleagues who have lived in our country for an average of 20 years.

As elected officials, we are proud to stand with the Dreamers, temporary protected status (TPS) holders and other undocumented immigrants who have stood with us in difficult times. These folks are our neighbors and have served as essential workers during the pandemic, contributing greatly to our economy and society as active members of our communities.

Here in the Granite State, we value the close connection we feel to our neighbors and our communities at large.

Unfortunately, in our state, there are families who live in constant fear that they will be separated because the threat of deportation has not ceased. Without protections, our undocumented neighbors remain vulnerable to deportation from the country they call home. These families should not have to worry for their safety and stability, especially when there is a solution that would allow them to plan for their future and relieve them of their worries.

Fortunately, our federal delegation understands all of this well. In the U.S. Senate, where negotiation of a future reconciliation bill continues, our senators have been steadfast champions, pushing for and working with their colleagues to provide hope and security for Dreamers whose energy, hard work, and innovation are critical to our economic future.

Our undocumented neighbors have contributed to our economy for far too long and not only is offering them greater stability and certainty the right thing to do, but it will also help build a more resilient economy, buttressed for future generations.

As Sens. Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan know, by including immigration relief in a future reconciliation package we can also help invigorate our economy. As elected officials in the Granite State, we know firsthand how critical it is that our state continues to build back stronger than ever. That means we need smart, pro-family, economy-boost ing policies that create stability and certainty, and lay the foundation for a workforce of people who are eager to contribute their talents and skills.

Moreover, providing protections for Dreamers, TPS holders, essential workers and other undocumented individuals would allow them to continue their success as employees and small business owners. That’s why including these protections in a new reconciliation package should be a priority for our leaders in the U.S. Senate. The opportunity for meaningful immigration reform is still within our grasp. We can take positive steps forward on work permits and protections of Dreamers, TPS holders and others.

As negotiations in the Senate continue, please be reminded that this is a critically important issue to the communities and families we represent and presents an opportunity we cannot let slip.

Becky Whitley is a state senator from Concord and Manny Espitia of Nashua is a state representative.