Senator Suggests Alternative to Financial Stipend for Undocumented Immigrants
Senator Reuben Gallego from Arizona has put forward a proposal suggesting a different approach to the financial assistance that undocumented immigrants might receive. Rather than the previously proposed $1,000 payment for those opting to report their status through the CBP Home App, he proposes that they be fined and given a work visa as their immigration cases are pending.
Gallego emphasized that background checks would be conducted and that the work visas would be renewable provided individuals maintain good behavior.
He stated, “If we have to officially deport you, there will be a mandatory bar for up to 20 years. In some cases, it could even be permanent.”
This idea has not gone without criticism. Gallego made it clear that this proposal does not provide a pathway to citizenship; a work visa does not equate to being able to become a citizen.
The senator’s proposal came in response to a recent announcement by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regarding a new initiative. DHS mentioned that the average expense of arresting and deporting undocumented immigrants amounts to $17,121, and providing incentives for self-deportation could ultimately save taxpayers money in the long run.
“If you’re here illegally, the most effective and safest option to avoid arrest is to self-deport back to your home country,” DHS indicated. They currently offer financial travel assistance and scholarships for undocumented individuals wishing to return home through the CBP Home App.
Recently, the DHS reported that flights for some undocumented immigrants have been booked as Honduras nationals have begun returning to their countries.
Tom Homan, a former border official, commented that illegal immigration should ideally resolve itself, but he cautioned that individuals facing official deportation would be subject to long-term consequences.
Since the redesign of the CBP Home App was launched in March, it remains uncertain whether the financial incentives will significantly increase the number of undocumented immigrants leaving the U.S.
