SEPTEMBER 9, 2024
Colorado Town Looking to Sue Denver Over Sanctuary City Policy
Castle Rock's Town Council unanimously approved exploring legal action against Denver over its immigration policies, which they claim are negatively impacting neighboring communities. Councilmember Max Brooks proposed directing the town attorney to discuss potential litigation with Douglas County and other municipalities affected by Denver's migrant crisis. Denver has spent $74 million on housing and feeding nearly 43,000 immigrants, many from Venezuela. Douglas County previously sued Colorado over "sanctuary" laws restricting local law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Castle Rock Mayor Jason Gray expressed concern about the vetting process for immigrants entering the country.
National Academy Calls For More Immigrant Visas, No Per-Country Limit
The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) has released a report recommending significant changes to the U.S. immigration system to retain top talent in science and engineering. Key suggestions include increasing employment-based green cards, eliminating per-country limits for high-skilled immigrant visas, and expanding domestic STEM education. The report highlights the benefits of admitting immigrant scientists and engineers, citing studies showing their positive impact on innovation, job creation, and economic growth. It also addresses challenges posed by China's talent recruitment programs and criticizes the "China Initiative" as counterproductive. The NAS emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to international collaboration while maintaining U.S. technological leadership.
Biden Green Card Policy For Undocumented Immigrants Remains Blocked By Courts
A U.S. judge has temporarily blocked the Biden administration's Keeping Families Together program, which offers a path to citizenship for about 500,000 undocumented immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens. The program, announced in June, would allow immigrants with at least 10 years of U.S. residence to apply for legal status without leaving the country. Texas and 15 other Republican-led states sued to end the program, arguing it oversteps executive authority. The judge's decision maintains a pause on the program through September 23 to allow for further legal briefing. Immigration remains a top voter concern ahead of the November 5 election.
US Introduces New Visa Classifications for Lightering Vessel Crews, Extending Maximum Stay to 180 Days
The U.S. Department of State has announced two new visa classifications: C-4 for transit to join a lightering vessel and D-3 for crewmembers performing lightering activities. A combination C-4/D-3 visa is also available. These visas allow holders to stay in the United States for up to 180 days, unlike C-1 and C-1/D visas which are limited to 29 days. The new classifications will be implemented starting September 5, 2024.
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