(DailyChive.com) – In the final days of President Joe Biden’s time in office, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas announced a plan that could shake up the American job market. This new rule, rolled out by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), will allow millions of migrants with work permits to keep their authorization for up to 540 days while waiting for a renewal. Previously, the extension was only 180 days.
For years, Democratic leaders, including mayors of major cities, pushed for such a change. Their argument? It would help migrants and ease hiring headaches for businesses. The new rule is set to take effect on January 13, 2025.
Mayorkas explained the decision, emphasizing its benefits for businesses and the economy. “This will cut red tape, keep people employed, and boost our economy,” he said. Similarly, USCIS Director Ur Jaddou supported the move, stating it would help businesses hold onto workers and prevent unnecessary job disruptions for those waiting on paperwork.
However, not everyone is cheering. At a recent hearing, Republican Congressman Tom McClintock criticized the policy, pointing out that inflation is rising faster than wages. He argued that giving more jobs to foreign workers hurts American families. “If you’re wondering why wages are shrinking for working families, this decision by the administration is a big reason why,” McClintock said.
Critics also point to the numbers. Over the past year, more than a million foreign-born workers have taken U.S. jobs, while nearly 800,000 Americans have left the workforce. A Pew Research Center study from July revealed that by 2022, over 30 million legal and illegal immigrants were working in the U.S.—a 20% jump in just 15 years. Meanwhile, the number of native-born Americans entering the workforce grew by less than 10% over the same period.
Supporters of the rule say it’s a necessary step to fill vacant jobs and support businesses. Detractors warn it’s another blow to American workers already struggling to make ends meet. As this policy goes into effect, its impact on the job market—and on working Americans—will surely be a heated topic for months to come.
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