Governor Murphy Supports Biden’s Decision to Grant Work Permits to Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens

Governor Murphy Supports Biden's Decision to Grant Work Permits to Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens

Murphy on President Biden’s Executive Order Granting Work Permits for Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens:

“I am glad to see President Biden take executive action to grant work permits to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens.

“This Executive Order sends a simple, powerful message: when all of our neighbors are given the opportunity to contribute to our shared future and a fair chance to pursue the American Dream, all of us are better off.

“That is exactly what we have proven over the past several years in New Jersey by expanding access to professional and occupational licenses to more workers and by ensuring access to driver’s licenses to help undocumented residents commute to their jobs, among other reforms. By helping eligible individuals more easily acquire work permits and find employment, we are building a stronger economic future for all.”

“We must continue expanding opportunities for those who seek a better life by establishing a clear path to citizenship for our undocumented neighbors through comprehensive immigration reform.”

The context, from NBC News:

The Biden administration is taking executive action to protect undocumented spouses of American citizens — a move that would shield about 500,000 immigrants from deportation.

The White House announced the election-year policy Tuesday, framing it as “new action to keep families together.” NBC News reported that an executive action protecting the spouses was likely to be announced soon, after urging from immigration advocates and Democratic lawmakers and as President Joe Biden courts Latino voters in crucial battleground states.

Lawmakers have been briefed on the plan and at least some have been invited to the White House for the announcement, sources said.

“This is the biggest thing since DACA,” said a source familiar with the matter, an immigration advocate, adding that it was a smart political move by the Biden administration.

Foreshadowing the likely battles to come over the policy, the White House was keen to stress that it has been tough on unlawful border crossings and has worked to dismantle people-smuggling networks.

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New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has expressed his support for President Joe Biden’s decision to grant work permits to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens. The move, which was announced by the Biden administration earlier this month, aims to provide relief to thousands of immigrant families who have been living in the shadows due to their immigration status.

Governor Murphy, a strong advocate for immigrant rights, praised the decision as a step in the right direction towards comprehensive immigration reform. In a statement released by his office, he stated, “I applaud President Biden for taking this important step to support immigrant families and recognize the contributions that they make to our communities and our economy.”

Under the new policy, undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens will be eligible to apply for work permits if they meet certain criteria, including having a clean criminal record and being in a bona fide marriage with a U.S. citizen. The move is expected to benefit an estimated 90,000 individuals who have been living in the U.S. without legal status.

Supporters of the policy argue that it will help to strengthen families and communities by allowing undocumented spouses to work legally and contribute to the economy. They also point out that it will provide much-needed stability and security for immigrant families who have been living in fear of deportation.

However, critics of the policy have raised concerns about potential fraud and abuse, as well as the impact on American workers. Some argue that granting work permits to undocumented immigrants could lead to increased competition for jobs and lower wages for U.S. citizens.

Despite these concerns, Governor Murphy and other supporters of the policy believe that it is a necessary step towards creating a more fair and just immigration system. They argue that providing work permits to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens will help to keep families together and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to contribute to society.

In conclusion, Governor Murphy’s support for President Biden’s decision to grant work permits to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens reflects his commitment to immigrant rights and his belief in the importance of creating a more inclusive and compassionate immigration system. The move is expected to provide much-needed relief to thousands of immigrant families and pave the way for further reforms in the future.