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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1370]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
NEW DEAL FOR NEW AMERICANS ACT
______
HON. GRACE MENG
of new york
in the house of representatives
Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Ms. MENG. Madam Speaker, the United States is the nation that it is
today, because of immigrant contributions. In fact, I am proud to
represent one of the most diverse congressional districts in the
country--Queens, New York; it is a place where immigrant communities
thrive.
I also know our nation can only get stronger if we assist new
Americans in their efforts to contribute to the growth of our economy
and be civically engaged.
Madam Speaker, I am a daughter of immigrants. I saw firsthand the
difficulties my parents and grandparents encountered when they
immigrated to the United States for a better life for their children.
This is not an uncommon story. While the levels of hardships of new
immigrants vary, there are common challenges--from language barriers to
finding work.
That is why, I am so proud to introduce the ``New Deal for New
Americans Act,'' legislation which would ensure a more inclusive and
welcoming system for all those who arrive on our shores.
Specifically, the ``New Deal for New Americans Act'' would:
Establish a National Office of New Americans in the Executive Office
of the White House to promote and support immigrant and refugee
integration and inclusion and coordinate efforts of federal, state, and
local governments to support social, economic, and civic integration of
immigrants and refugees.
Establish a Federal Initiative on New Americans to coordinate federal
response to address issues that affect the lives of new immigrants and
refugees and communities with growing immigrant and refugee
populations.
Create a Legal Services and Immigration Assistance Grant Program to
support organizations that provide direct immigration assistance to
those in need of immigration screening; know-your-rights education;
assistance in applying for citizenship, lawful permanent resident
status or other immigration status; or seeking relief from a removal
order.
Create an English as a Gateway to Integration Program for
organizations that teach English or help individuals prepare for
naturalization or earn a GED.
Create a Workforce Development Grant Program to ensure that immigrant
and refugee adults have equitable access to education and workforce
programs that help equip them with occupational skills needed to secure
or advance in employment.
Reduce barriers for individuals to naturalize by establishing a flat
application fee for naturalization, amending the English and civics
exam requirements for older individuals, and exempting eligible U.S.
high school graduates from taking the naturalization exams.
Limit USCIS's ability to raise fees without Congress' approval, plus
require authorization of appropriations to cover USCIS' need to operate
and adjudicate cases.
Promote civic engagement through automatic voter registration of
newly naturalized individuals.
Expand family integration by reducing the age of citizens who are
able to petition eligible family members from 21 years old to 18 years
old.
Increase Refugee Admissions level to 110,000 per fiscal year.
Provide social, economic, and civic support to refugees and rebuild
the capacity and infrastructure of local communities to welcome
refugees.
Amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to no longer allow
deportation of an individual deemed to have become a public charge.
Madam Speaker, the United States is a nation of immigrants. The rich
tapestry of our nation that is comprised of diverse cultures,
languages, and lives experiences have always been America's strength.
Immigrants and refugees have always been America's strength--which is
why improving our system to welcome new Americans will ensure our
nation continues to thrive. I urge my colleagues to support this
legislation and join me in moving our diverse nation forward by helping
immigrants and refugees.
____________________
