Rep. Cisneros Statement on The President's Coronavirus Immigration Executive Order

Statement

Today, Representative Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr. (CA-39) issued the following statement regarding the White House releasing the details of the President's immigration executive order. This comes two days after the President tweeted on Monday that he would temporarily suspend immigration.

"The President's objective has always been to eliminate all types of immigration into the country. Now he's using this crisis as his excuse to try to make that happen. This is a complete distraction from the real problems that are going on right now. Across the country, our immigrant communities are stepping up to help in this pandemic. This careless executive order is meant to fulfill campaign promises and has nothing to do with effectively combating the coronavirus.

"We need to support immigrant workers and ensure everyone on the frontlines has the resources and tools to do their jobs safely. It is hypocritical for the President to encourage states to reopen, yet heartlessly block legal immigration. The United States is a melting pot that was built by immigrants. Rather than trying to eliminate immigration, he should be working on a comprehensive immigration plan that will benefit the nation."

The Executive Order stops the entry of people seeking to immigrate permanently, with a few exceptions. The restriction applies only to people who are outside the United States and don't yet have a valid immigrant visa. Certain categories are exempted, including spouses and minor children of US citizens, the spouses and children of military members, healthcare professionals seeking to enter to combat COVID, EB-5 investors, those whose entry is deemed to be in the national interest, and a few others.

Summary:

Suspends the entry of individuals on immigrant visas (IVs) only, for 60 days with possible extension;

Only applies to individuals who are outside the U.S. on the effective date (midnight on 11:59 PM on Thursday) and who lack a valid immigration visa or other travel document;

Doesn't apply to:
Physicians, nurses, and healthcare workers and their spouses and children
EB-5 immigrants
Spouses and children of US citizens
Prospective adoptees
Individuals who would further law enforcement objectives
Members of the Armed Forces and their spouses and children
Iraqi/Afghani Special Immigrants and their spouses and children
Individuals whose entry would be in the national interest

Specifically says that it does not limit the ability to seek protection through asylum

Directs Department of Labor and Department of Homeland Security to consult with State and make recommendations on NIV programs in 30 days.

Source