Rep. Bera Opposes Trump Administration Changes to Green Card Processing Policy

WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) released the following statement in response to the Trump administration’s major change to green card processing policy that would require many immigrants already living legally in the United States to leave the country and complete the process abroad:

“I strongly oppose the Trump administration’s disruptive decision to require many students, temporary visa holders, and other individuals seeking green cards to leave the United States and return to their home countries while their applications are processed. This policy creates unnecessary fear and uncertainty for families, workers, and employers who are following the law.

“The Administration disregards the fact that many individuals seeking permanent residency are here legally and waiting for their cases to move through an already backlogged immigration system.

“America has long benefited from attracting top researchers, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, and innovators through our legal immigration system and worker visa programs. Forcing these individuals to leave the United States during the green card process will deprive our country of their innovation, their tax contributions, and the many ways they strengthen our economy and communities.

“As the son of Indian immigrants, I know firsthand that our nation is strengthened by people who come here legally, work hard, and contribute to our communities. We should be reducing processing delays and modernizing our immigration system, not creating additional barriers for people who are following the rules.

“I support legal challenges to this policy and expect the courts to halt its implementation.”