GOP Rep. Maria Salazar pushed for a bill on Thursday that would allow illegal immigrants who have been in the country for years gain legal status in the US.
"President Trump, sir, the same God who saved you from death in Pennsylvania one year ago and who put you back in the Oval Office against all odds, is the same God Almighty who millions and millions are begging to for some type of dignity, not amnesty," Salazar said in a press conference Tuesday for the Dignity Act, which she introduced with Dem Rep. Veronica Escobar.
"Sir, I believe that you could be, for immigration, what Lincoln was for slavery and Reagan was for communism. You are a businessman who understands our economy needs a reliable working force in areas where other Americans don't participate," she continued.
"You have been called to do this, to fix this 40-year mess with just one signature, yours. Human dignity is one of the seven pillars of American conservatism. For that reason, Mr. President, the eye of history is upon us." Salazar said that if "we get this wrong, future generations will pay the price in shame. But if we get it right, the United States will continue to lead in Liberty, and you will have been the Commander in Chief."
Among the provisions in the bill is the "Dignity Program," which would allow for illegal immigrants who arrived in the country before the end of 2020 to apply for a 7-year legal status in the US that gives work authorization and protection from removal proceedings. Those accepted must pay $7,000 in restitution over the seven years, and after the time is up in the program, they can apply for 'Dignity Status.' Migrants 'can remain in this status as long as they want.'"
It also creates a pathway to permanent resident status for Dreamers or DACA recipients. Those who were brought to the US are given a conditional permanent resident status for 10 years, during which they can work towards lawful permanent resident status through receiving a degree, completing at least three years of military service, or being employed for at least four years.
Critics of the bill have said that it amounts to amnesty for illegal immigrants. Former House member Matt Gaetz wrote, "I have GREAT respect for Rep. Salazar. She’s a smart, dedicated public servant who is a wonderful person. She’s also correct about country caps, IMHO. But the 'Dignity Act” includes amnesty for illegal immigrants. This is deeply unwise. Let’s stop the invasion before destroying the party over amnesty."
Article 3 Project Senior Counsel Will Chamberlain wrote, "Having read through the bill, it's even WORSE than you would think. It is an amnesty bill for illegal aliens and would absolutely blow the door open on legal migration."
